This Day In NBA Sports History: Jun 1, 1979-2011

The best of this day in NBA sports history. June 1. Dirk Nowitzki led the comeback in the finals, George Mikan died, Reggie Miller’s record, Dan Majerle’s playoff record, and the only Seattle championship. What happened on this day in NBA history?

Dirk Nowitzki Led a Comeback In the NBA Finals

Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki came from behind with a layup with 3.6 seconds left after trailing by 15 points in the fourth quarter. This 95-93 victory over the Miami Heat allowed Dallas to tie the NBA Finals at one game apiece. The Mavs outscored the Heat 22-5 down the stretch, pulling off the largest comeback in an NBA Finals since 1992.

George Mikan Dies

The original dominating big man and Hall of Famer George Mikan died at 80.

Reggie Miller’s Record

Indiana’s Reggie Miller made an NBA playoff record for most three-pointers, sinking five three-pointers in the fourth quarter of the Pacers’ 93-86 victory over host New York in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Miller finished with a game-high 39 points on 6-of-11 shooting. Five players have since tied Miller’s record of five three-pointers in a playoff quarter.

Dan Majerle’s Playoff Record

Phoenix’s Dan Majerle set a playoff record by making eight three-pointers during the Suns’ 120-114 victory over Seattle in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. Majerle finished the game with 34 points.

The Only Seattle Championship

The Seattle Super Sonics, after losing Game 1 of the NBA Finals, defeated Washington 97-93 in Game 5 for their fourth consecutive Finals victory, capturing their only NBA championship. Gus Williams scored 23 points, and Jack Sikma grabbed 17 rebounds.