1995 NBA Finals Game 4 Orlando Magic at Houston Rockets, June 14, 1995, Rockets Repeats

ORL 101, HOU 113 - On June 14, 1995, the Houston Rockets etched their name into NBA history with a decisive victory over the Orlando Magic, securing their second consecutive championship. Led by the formidable duo of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, the Rockets dominated Game 4 at home in The Summit, sealing the series sweep with a commanding 113-101 win. The game was punctuated by memorable moments: Drexler's electrifying breakaway dunk and Olajuwon's surprising three-point attempt late in the game. However, it was head coach Rudy Tomjanovich's impassioned post-game speech that resonated most deeply with fans and pundits alike.

Player of the game:
Hakeem Olajuwon: 35 PTS, 15-30 FGM, 50 FG%, 1-1 3PM, 4-5 FTM, 15 REB, 6 AST, 3 STL, GMSC 26.9

Notable performance:
Robert Horry: 21 PTS, 6-14 FGM, 43 FG%, 4-9 3PM, 5-9 FTM, 13 REB, 5 AST, 1 STL, GMSC: 19.6
Penny Hardaway: 25 PTS, 8-14 FGM, 57 FG%, 5-8 3PM, 4-4 FTM, 6 REB, 5 AST, 1 STL, GMSC: 19.1

Throughout their championship run, the Rockets defied expectations and overcame significant challenges. Despite entering the playoffs as the sixth seed, they battled through intense series, often facing elimination. Tomjanovich, affectionately known as "Rudy T," acknowledged the doubters and skeptics who had written off his team throughout the season. His now-iconic declaration to legendary broadcaster Bob Costas encapsulated the Rockets' journey: "No one's ever done what this team's done... Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion." This rallying cry not only celebrated their improbable triumph but also cemented their legacy as a team of resilience and unwavering determination.

The 1995 NBA Finals victory was more than just a championship; it was a testament to the Rockets' fortitude and unity. Tomjanovich's words echoed across the sports world, becoming a defining moment in NBA Finals lore. The phrase "Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion" became synonymous with the Rockets' remarkable season and continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, serving as a reminder of the profound impact of perseverance and belief in the face of adversity.

While Hakeem Olajuwon was the undisputed Finals MVP, dominating the series with averages of 32.8 points on 48% shooting, 69% from the free throw line, 11.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.0 blocks, Robert Horry emerged as the series' X-factor. Olajuwon's consistent excellence solidified his status as the best player on the court, but Horry's impact in crucial moments made a significant difference for Houston.

Looking at the Game Score metrics throughout the series, Olajuwon clearly outplayed Shaquille O'Neal, posting a Game Score of 24.5 compared to Shaq's 21.8. Meanwhile, Penny Hardaway had a slight edge over Clyde Drexler, finishing with a Game Score of 20.5 to Drexler's 20.1, essentially canceling each other out in terms of their overall contributions. However, the true differentiator came from Horry, who elevated his play to near All-Star, if not MVP-caliber levels, with a Game Score of 19.0.

In contrast, the Magic's third option, Horace Grant, posted a Game Score of just 12.3, firmly within role-player territory. This disparity in contributions from the supporting cast was pivotal, as Robert Horry's standout performances provided the Rockets with a significant edge. Adding to Houston's depth, Mario Elie contributed a solid 15.4 Game Score, while Sam Cassell added 11.3, highlighting how everyone on the Rockets elevated their game when it mattered most. This collective effort played a crucial role in Houston's sweep of Orlando, securing their second consecutive championship.

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