15 best NBA moments from 2016

June 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Kevin Love (0) celebrate the 93-89 and series victory against the Golden State Warriors following game seven of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
June 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Kevin Love (0) celebrate the 93-89 and series victory against the Golden State Warriors following game seven of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Sager Strong

Although 2016 marked the tragic loss of legendary sideline reporter Craig Sager, following a long and hard-fought battle with leukemia, the year and Sager’s role in it can be remembered fondly for bringing out the best in the NBA community, showcasing great bravery and inspiring those who needed it most.

As #SagerStrong became a rallying call for teams, fans and the media alike to show their support for the colorful reporter in his own battles with the unforgiving disease, it also helped to create an environment of ongoing awareness and support around the league for an illness that touches the lives of so many.

Whether it was limited edition Nike shoes or the Sager Foundation‘s own t-shirts; apparel to show solidarity with Sager and others suffering with leukemia around the world became something of a staple among players for pre-game warmups. Going a step further, it wasn’t unusual to see coaches wearing colorful shirts and ties reminiscent of Sager’s own style and personality while at work on the sidelines either.

While the end of 2015 saw a memorable interview between Sager and Spurs coach Gregg Popovich upon the former’s return to work, the most memorable Sager moment of 2016 likely came at the NBA Finals. Thanks to a special arrangement between Turner and ESPN, the NBA’s most famous sideline reporter got to work the league’s biggest game for the first time.

In a game where the stakes were higher than they’d been at any point prior in the season, Sager reminded us all of what was really important. It was a special memory for everyone who watched it, and he’ll be sadly missed.