The Miami Heat have made it to the NBA Finals for the third consecutive year after an impressive Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers Monday night for the Eastern Conference title.
LeBron James was once again the leading motor for the Heat scoring 32 points while grabbing eight rebounds in a blowout 99-76 win over the Pacers. James was complemented by teammate Dwyane Wade's, who was struggling prior to Monday's Game 7, series high 21 points.
"They're just an amazing group of guys," Heat managing general partner Micky Arison said after handing the East trophy to Chris Andersen. "They've given us an incredible season so far, but it's a long way from over."
Miami led by as many as 28 points after trailing by six in the early going of the game, and were still down 21-19 after the first quarter.
"You never want to take anything for granted," Wade said. "Being here three straight years in a row, going back to the Finals, is an amazing feat. I'm just glad we were able to do it. Everything that happened in the first six games didn't mean anything to us. It was about tonight. It was about Game 7. It was about finding a way to win here at home."
The Pacers were led by center Roy Hibbert's 18 points. Forward David West contributed 14 points, George Hill had 13 and Lance Stephenson had 10.
All-Star Paul George was held to a lowly seven points before being fouled out early in the fourth quarter, but was the last Indiana player to walk off the floor as the Heat began their postgame celebration.
Prior to Monday's Game 7, Hibbert said that George has what it takes to take the MVP crown away from James, even suggesting as early as next season.
"He's the future," Hibbert said. "He has a chance to be MVP of this league next year."
George's response to Hibbert's statement was as followed:
"Obviously, I agree with him," George told FOX Sports Florida after Monday's shootaround in preparation for the evening Game 7 against James' Heat. "The more and more I get comfortable in this league and the more and more I find myself, I think I am capable of achieving that award.
"Maybe not so quick as next year, but in my career, I wouldn't be satisfied if I don't win the award."
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