In the world of professional basketball, where momentum can shift in an instant, no lead is ever truly safe. Throughout its history, the NBA has witnessed some of the most extraordinary comebacks, defying odds and thrilling fans. These moments of resilience and determination have become iconic, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport. From impossible deficits to last-second heroics, the following comebacks are some of the most improbable turnarounds in NBA history.
Utah Jazz vs. Denver Nuggets (1996) – 36-Point Comeback
One of the largest comebacks in NBA history took place on November 27, 1996, between the Utah Jazz and Denver Nuggets. The Jazz found themselves trailing behind by 36 points during the second quarter. At this point, most would consider this game out of reach. However, Utah, led by Hall of Famers Karl Malone and John Stockton, orchestrated a magical comeback in the second half. The Jazz won the final two quarters 71-33 and defeated the Nuggets 107-103. This historic game serves to remind us of the NBA’s unpredictability and the potential for dramatic turnarounds.
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With the introduction of live odds that adjust during a match, bettors can take advantage of shifts in momentum, such as the Jazz’s incredible second-half rally against the Denver Nuggets.
Nuggets Los Angeles Clippers vs. Washington Wizards (2022) – 35-Point Comeback
The Los Angeles Clippers completed an unbelievable 35-point comeback against the Washington Wizards on January 25, 2022. The Wizards were in comfortable territory at halftime, leading 66-31, before the Clippers simply refused to give up.
Luke Kennard nailed a four-point play in the final seconds to seal a 116-115 win for the Clippers. This, the largest comeback in NBA history by a long shot, second all-time, only proved one thing: never lose focus, no matter how unbearable the odds seem, while also highlighting a growing trend of extremely efficient offenses within the Championship.
Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers (2008 NBA Finals) – 24-Point Comeback
Of the most unforgettable comebacks in NBA Finals history happened in Game 4 of the 2008 Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. During the game, the Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant, gained a commanding 24-point lead in the second quarter.
However, Boston’s “Big Three”, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen, stepped up to gradually chip away at the deficit. The Celtics outscored the Lakers by 24 points in the second half, ultimately winning the game 97-91. This comeback remains the largest NBA Finals history since 1971, and it played a significant role in the Celtics securing their first championship in two decades. The win was a balanced team effort for Boston, with five players scoring in double figures and Paul Pierce leading the charge with 20 points.
Toronto Raptors vs. Dallas Mavericks (2019) – 30-Point Comeback
On December 22, 2019, the Toronto Raptors completed one of the largest comebacks in NBA history. Trailing by 30 with 2:55 left in the third quarter, the Raptors mounted an incredible comeback against the Dallas Mavericks. Kyle Lowry scored 32 points and 10 assists, with 20 of those points coming in the fourth quarter.
The Raptors outscored the Mavericks 47-21 in the final period to win 110-107. This game punched Lowry’s ticket into Raptors fame, with the Raptors erasing a 23-point deficit.
Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs (2004) – 13 Points in 33 Seconds
On December 9, 2004, Tracy McGrady of the Houston Rockets delivered one of the most incredible individual performances in the NBA. With only 35 seconds remaining in the game, the Rockets were trailing the San Antonio Spurs 76-68. What happened next was nothing short of miraculous.
McGrady went on to score 13 points in the final 35 seconds of the game, leading the Rockets to a 81-80 victory. This sequence ended with McGrady hitting the game-winning three-pointer with just 1.7 seconds left on the clock. This performance etched his name into the NBA as one of the league’s greatest clutch performers.
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors (2019 Playoffs) – 31-Point Comeback
The Los Angeles Clippers staged one of the best comebacks after recovering from a 31-point deficit in the first round of the 2019 NBA playoffs. The Golden State Warriors, led by Kevin Durant and Steph Curry, were cruising with a 94-63 lead with 7:31 remaining in the third quarter. Lou Williams spearheaded the Clippers rally, finishing with 36 points as the Clippers came from behind to stun the Warriors 135-131.
