Breaking Down the NBA finals series structure

NBA Finals: Breaking down the 2-3-2 series scheme

For nearly two decades, the NBA finals have been structured specifically, as to provide advantages and disadvantages to both teams in an attempt to level the playing field. The NBA finals is the greatest stage for the sport. It determines the champion for that year, and potentially defines a team or player’s legacy in the league.

The games are structured as such: 2 consecutive home games for the higher ranked team, then 3 consecutive games for the lesser ranked team, followed by 2 more home games for the first team: 4-3. The prior rounds are set 2-2-1-1-1. Why it changes for the finals is ambiguous, causing there to be constant debates around the league amongst owners and the NBA front office.

In the playoffs, home court advantage is essential. A good crowd can have a major impact on the game. The shouts and cheers from a home crowd can psychologically affect some players. The team that wins Game 1 of a series, especially at home, is more inclined to win the series. By winning all home games, a team will never trail in a series.

In the Finals, the lesser-ranked team that might possibly be in a 0-2 hole in the finals need not worry. They are then able to win Games 3, 4, and 5 in a row, though very difficult, and put the higher ranked team in a tough position. In a sense it levels the playing field, evening the challenge of winning a series. The higher ranked team must then win 2 games in a row, Game 6 and 7, just like they won Game 1 and 2.

If the NBA can help it, changing the finals series causes more harm than good. The advantageous team potentially loses that ability to always have the upper hand. However, the advantageous team, if down 2-3 after five games, can win both 6 and7: entirely possible.