The Greatest Game-Winning Shots in Sports History
Few moments in sports are as electrifying as the game-winning shot. It’s the instant when time seems to stand still, the crowd collectively holds its breath, and then—in a heartbeat—erupts into chaos. These iconic moments have etched themselves into the fabric of sports history, becoming part of the lore that fans recount for generations. Here are some of the greatest game-winning shots ever made.
Steph Curry’s Big Shot in the Paris Olympics
Steph Curry is no stranger to hitting big-time shots, and during the 2024 Paris Olympics, he delivered yet again. Though not technically a game-winner, Curry's three-pointer with 35 seconds left, extending Team USA's lead over France to 93-87, had a similar effect because of the stage it was on. The gold medal was on the line, and France was mounting a fierce comeback. With the game hanging in the balance, Curry launched a deep three-pointer, effectively sealing the victory for Team USA and securing the gold medal. The shot was a testament to Curry's clutch gene and solidified his status as one of the greatest shooters in basketball history.
Lorenzo Charles and NC State’s Miracle Win
The 1983 NCAA Championship game between NC State and Houston is the stuff of legends, thanks to Lorenzo Charles. With the game tied and time running out, NC State’s Dereck Whittenburg launched a desperate, long-range shot that fell short of the basket. But Lorenzo Charles was there, rising above everyone else to catch the “pass” and gently lay the ball into the hoop as time expired. The improbable win sparked an unforgettable celebration, with coach Jim Valvano, “Jimmy V,” sprinting around the court in pure joy, looking for someone to hug. Charles’ game-winning shot is one of the most iconic moments in college basketball history, symbolizing the power of perseverance and belief.
Michael Jordan’s Legacy of Clutch Moments
When it comes to clutch performances, Michael Jordan is in a league of his own. His career is dotted with game-winning shots, each one more dramatic than the last. Perhaps the most famous of all is “The Shot” against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1989 NBA Playoffs. With the series on the line, Jordan caught the inbounds pass, took a couple of dribbles, and then elevated over Craig Ehlo to hit a jumper at the buzzer, sending the Bulls to the next round. The image of Jordan, frozen in mid-air with Ehlo desperately trying to contest the shot, is iconic.
But Jordan didn’t stop there. His 1998 NBA Finals game-winner against the Utah Jazz is another masterpiece. With the Bulls trailing by one point and less than 10 seconds on the clock, Jordan stole the ball from Karl Malone, dribbled up the court, and crossed over Bryon Russell before sinking the game-winning jumper. The shot not only clinched the championship for the Bulls but also cemented Jordan’s legacy as the greatest closer in basketball history.
UNC Chapel Hill’s Heartbreaking Loss
For every game-winning shot that brings ecstasy, there’s one that brings agony. In the 2016 NCAA Championship, UNC Chapel Hill fans experienced the latter. With the game tied in the final seconds, Villanova’s Kris Jenkins received a pass from Ryan Arcidiacono and launched a three-pointer at the buzzer. The ball soared through the air and found nothing but net, breaking the hearts of Tar Heel fans everywhere. Jenkins’ shot is celebrated as one of the greatest in NCAA history, but for UNC fans, it’s a painful reminder of what could have been.
Other Legendary Game-Winners
The list of legendary game-winning shots goes on. Ray Allen’s corner three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals is another unforgettable moment. With the Miami Heat trailing by three points and the championship on the line, Allen calmly sank the shot to force overtime, ultimately helping the Heat win the title.
Reggie Miller’s eight points in nine seconds against the New York Knicks in the 1995 NBA Playoffs also deserves mention. His two three-pointers and clutch free throws stunned the Knicks and their fans, adding to his reputation as one of the greatest clutch performers in NBA history.
Finally, there’s Damian Lillard’s deep three-pointer in 2019 to eliminate the Oklahoma City Thunder from the playoffs. Lillard waved goodbye to the Thunder as the ball dropped through the net, ending the series and securing his place in playoff lore.
What’s Your Favorite Game-Winning Shot?
These are just a few of the greatest game-winning shots in sports history, but the list could go on forever. Whether it’s a buzzer-beater in the NBA, a walk-off home run in baseball, or a last-second goal in soccer, these moments define the thrill of competition.
What game-winning shots do you remember most vividly? Share your favorites—whether they’re on this list or not—and let’s celebrate the moments that make sports so unforgettable.
