Update 9/25/22: NBC’s open from Game 1 of the 1999 NBA Finals, as narrated by Bob Costas:
“Throughout this NBA season of uncertainty, there was one thing that was certain: the Bulls’ reign was over. Therefore, the focus of the league’s stars became crystal clear: earn the crown that has eluded them. But as the playoffs progressed, most were left to reflect on another missed opportunity.
Still, one long-denied star managed to shine. A celebrated Admiral is moments away from leading the San Antonio Spurs into battle. It’s the first trip to the NBA Finals for David Robinson. Will the special forces that surround the Admiral continue to dominate their opponents? Ten consecutive postseason wins makes them the prohibitive favorite — and moves Robinson that much closer to the championship he covets.
Uncertainty defined the New York Knicks regular season, but turmoil and lackluster results have given way to spectacular postseason achievement and team harmony. When this unconventional collection of stars lost their leader, they never lost heart. Instead, it inspired them to last-second heroics and peak performances that have the skeptics asking and fans begging: ‘Can the eighth seed do it again?’
The window of opportunity is now. But who will persevere through the uncertainty and pressure of a championship? This much is certain: Game 1 of the NBA Finals is next.”
