In the 2019 NBA Finals, the Toronto Raptors secured their first championship, defeating the Golden State Warriors. This historic victory, however, was overshadowed by injuries that plagued both teams. Most notably, the return of Kevin Durant in Game 5 struck a chord of anxiety among Raptors players, particularly for former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Serge Ibaka.
The Warriors, having dominated the league with Durant on their roster, were seeking a third consecutive championship. Durant’s earlier calf strain during the second round against the Houston Rockets had sidelined him for the Western Conference Finals and the initial four games of the Finals. His absence was a significant factor in the Raptors taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. Critics often pointed to Durant’s injury as a reason for devaluing Toronto’s championship, but as Ibaka noted, they could only compete against the players on the court.
As the Raptors prepared for Game 5 at home, anticipation and tension filled the air. Durant’s return changed the dynamics instantly, and Ibaka admitted to feeling a rush of nerves. “I like to have pressure,” he said on the Hello and Welcome podcast, “but I didn’t know what to think during that time.” Despite having faith in his team’s capabilities, the sheer talent of Durant was undeniable. “That’s Kevin Durant, man. Easy money. He’s a killer,” Ibaka remarked.
Durant’s comeback was explosive; he scored 11 points in quick succession, making his first three three-pointers. Unfortunately, the excitement was short-lived, as he later sustained an Achilles injury that would alter his career trajectory and future with the Warriors. In the same game, Klay Thompson also suffered an ACL injury, further diminishing Golden State’s chances.
Despite these setbacks, the Raptors clinched the title, marking a milestone for Ibaka as he captured his first championship. Reflecting on the events of the Finals, Ibaka engaged Durant in a discussion on his YouTube series, How Hungry Are You? They debated what might have happened had Durant remained healthy throughout the series. Durant confidently stated, “For sure,” when asked if the Warriors would have won. Ibaka, however, countered with his belief that the Raptors were unstoppable at that point. “We were like a fire. Nobody could stop us,” he asserted.
The Raptors’ journey to the Finals was marked by resilience, including overcoming a tough seven-game series against the Philadelphia 76ers and a comeback from a 2-0 deficit against the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite this, Durant maintained that he could have made a difference, reminding Ibaka, “I could. I was like sub-zero.” Their conversation, while spirited, ended amicably, emphasizing mutual respect for each other’s abilities.
While discussions about the implications of injuries on championships are common in sports, it is essential to acknowledge that every championship has its challenges. The Raptors’ victory in 2019 stands as a testament to their determination and skill, regardless of the circumstances. As both Ibaka and Durant agreed, the essence of competition lies in overcoming obstacles, and the Raptors did just that.