5. 2007 NBA Finals Game 5: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. San Antonio Spurs

This one still stings for Spurs fans, I'm sure. Down 3-1, the Cavs, led by a young LeBron James (still finding his footing, I might add), somehow managed to claw their way back, winning three straight games. The series was a battle, but that final win in San Antonio...well, let's just say it wasn't on anyone's bingo card. Talk about defying the odds! It was more than an upset; it was a declaration that LeBron was ready to take the league by storm. And he eventually did, of course. But that series win in '07…wow!

4. 1994 NBA Finals Game 7: New York Knicks vs. Houston Rockets

The Rockets, with Hakeem Olajuwon leading the charge, were heavy favorites against a scrappy Knicks team. But Patrick Ewing and the Knicks, playing with heart and a relentless defense, shocked the world, winning Game 7 on the road. I remember watching this one, and the sheer disbelief on the faces of the Rockets fans was palpable. It's a testament to the power of belief, determination, and the unexpected.

3. 1999 NBA Western Conference Finals: Portland Trail Blazers vs. San Antonio Spurs

In 1999, the Spurs were the top seed in the West, boasting a star-studded roster. But the Portland Trail Blazers, a team many considered underdogs, had other plans. Led by the dynamic duo of Rasheed Wallace and Damon Stoudamire, they ousted the Spurs in a thrilling seven-game series. That series was a masterclass in teamwork and a reminder that talent alone doesn't always win. Sometimes, it's grit and determination that prevail. It's a huge upset, no doubt, and a great moment for NBA history!

2. 2011 NBA Finals Game 6: Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat's 'Big 3'—LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh—were supposed to dominate. They were the favorites, the darlings of the media. But the Mavericks, guided by the veteran leadership of Dirk Nowitzki, had other ideas. They won the championship in Miami, handing LeBron his first finals loss and becoming a true testament that team chemistry and excellent coaching can beat raw talent and expectation. Wow. That series was a major turning point, dontcha think?

1. 1995 NBA Western Conference Semifinals: Houston Rockets vs. Utah Jazz

The 1995 playoffs – oh, boy. The Utah Jazz, led by John Stockton and Karl Malone, were expected to easily defeat the Rockets. Houston was a wild card, to put it mildly. But the Rockets, fueled by an incredible defensive performance, and some seriously clutch plays from Hakeem Olajuwon, pulled off one of the most unexpected wins in NBA history. This series victory paved the way for the Rockets' surprising championship run that year, a testament to the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball.

So there you have it – my picks for the top five biggest NBA upsets! Each game holds a special place in basketball history, reminding us that anything can happen on the court. What are some of your favorite underdog stories? Let's discuss in the comments below! And hey, don't forget to share this post with your fellow hoops heads!

P.S. I may have missed a game or two, feel free to call me out on it!