NBA Finals: 5 things to know before Game 5

Here are 5 things you need to know before Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors.

The 2015 NBA Finals have been nothing short of an amazing viewing experience, even if you don’t have a proverbial dog in the fight. The first two games were decided in overtime, marking the first time that’s ever happened in an NBA championship series, and Game 3 was a jaw-dropping display of heart and skill by the best player on the planet (and no, I’m not talking about Timofey Mozgov), which was almost thwarted thanks to a furious comeback from the Warriors, whose three-point proficiency makes no deficit insurmountable, like how the computer can always mount a ridiculous late-game charge in NBA Hangtime (Midway games were evil like that; gotta hit that 1-1-1 cheat). So far the Finals have been competitive and unpredictable, displaying some of the best action that the sport of basketball has to offer, and you can’t ask for much more than that, not even if you’re really, really good at asking for things.

With series tied at 2-2 and Game 5 set to start at 5:00 pm PT on Sunday, here’s a little guide to help you get caught up on all the important stuff from the last game and to provide you with the best talking points to wow your buddies with during Game 5’s sure to be many commercial breaks. Sure, Game 4 lacked the fourth-quarter drama of the first three games, but it was still rich with various pleasures and storylines in need of your attention, and a little refresher course before the pivotal fifth game can’t hurt.

So buckle in and let’s begin.

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