The Miami Heat ride a complete effort, monster fourth quarter to the Finals

This is why the city of Miami invested their big money, their emotions, their heart, and their vocal chords in the Big Three. The “Miami Misguided” fan in me desires to post an immensely biased article. However, this is sports journalism, not a Facebook status. So let’s start with the Boston Celtics.

Yes, Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo were whining, flopping, and at some points looked like the ‘A’ list actresses in Hollywood, but their big three and Rajon Rondo was nothing short of heroic. Leaving the floor by Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo before a sportsmanlike handshake was as classless as Boston’s fans. I predicted the Miami Heat to win in six, and after the first two games I thought it would be five. I was never impressed with Boston in the regular season, but their team showed incredible heart, effort, and experience as they clawed and fought their way to some challenging victories. Yet, youth and talent prevailed as the younger and better “Miami Thrice” won out in a huge fourth quarter.

Many fans underestimated the role of Miami Heat PF Chris Bosh in the game. His statistics may not rival SG Dwyane Wade’s or SF LeBron James, but it was evident that his return marked a flip of the page for this team. Not only was Dwyane Wade stepping up his game, but Chris Bosh made himself the MVP by circumstance. Maybe LeBron James had the best game on the stat sheet, and was the best player on the floor, but Bosh shot 80% and nailed a rare 3-4 triples, adding a majestic deep shot to his already diverse game. He also came up big on the defensive end, adding eight rebounds and disrupting Garnett’s rhythm.

Bosh not only is tremendous with ball in hand, but his ability to force solid on ball defenders like PF Brandon Bass (who had a great game on his own right) draws the lane open for the slashers. LeBron and Dwyane Wade exploited the pick and roll defense of Boston, which is normally their top defensive movement. Shane Battier also proved instrumental with his defensive tenacity and four huge threes. The Heat turned around their poor first half and reinvigorated their transition game, using the speed, strength, and drawing fouls to blow away Boston in the fourth quarter.

It is onto OKC for the Miami Heat. For now, they will receive a well-deserved rest, and a tip of the proverbial cap (or headband) to the Boston Celtics for a wonderful series. I nearly avoided watching this game because I was so nervous, but it made for a great viewing and a triumphant classic.

Tags: Brandon Bass, Chris Bosh, Kevin Garnett, Lebron James, Paul Pierce, Rajon Rondo, Shane Battier