Who have been the NBA Finals MVPs in the past? Who has the most MVPs?
As we await the outcome of the 2023 NBA Finals, let’s take a moment to reflect on the players who have had the most significant impact when it mattered.
![Stephen Curry #30 and Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors celebrate with the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award and the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy](https://img.asmedia.epimg.net/resizer/v2/3AHHHZTGG4PEWMRR5GL5PXBIPA.jpg?auth=9a85cd1c038f12a9dc63de9a7ef0da55abb9fcb8943fe4a59c3231d66a6649ae&width=360&height=203&smart=true)
The NBA Finals series between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat will continue on Monday, and players from both teams will bring their A-game to the floor for the trophy.
Some players tend to buckle under the immense pressure of having the championship within reach, while others shine and deliver their best numbers at this crucial point in the season.
Those who can operate at the absolutely highest level in these circumstances are declared the Most Valuable Player of the NBA Finals and receive the Bill Russell Trophy.
Jerry West makes history
The NBA first handed out this award in 1969 to Jerry West, who is said to have been the inspiration for the league logo.
Aside from being the first awardee, West is also known for being the only player honored with the title while being on the losing team.
The league has given this honor 54 times to 32 players, showing that standout athletes often carry out repeat performances.
For example, Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan was named NBA Finals MVP a record six times. LeBron James follows suit with four wins, while Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Tim Duncan each earned the honor three times.