Looking back from 2026, Filipino basketball fans still remember the NBA Finals showdown between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks as one of the most talked-about series of the decade. In the Philippines—where basketball courts are found in almost every barangay—this Finals series sparked endless debates, watch parties, and online discussions.
Even though Draymond Green and the Golden State Warriors were no longer in the title race, Green remained influential through The Draymond Green Show. His prediction was clear and confident: Boston would win Game 1, but Dallas would take the NBA championship in Game 6. From a Filipino perspective, this take felt both logical and exciting. (PKLIVE)
Why Game 1 Belonged to Boston, According to Green
Green explained that the Mavericks needed time to adjust to the NBA Finals level of defense, physicality, and pressure. Filipino fans immediately related to this idea. In local leagues like UAAP and barangay tournaments, everyone knows the Finals are different—slower pace, tougher defense, and more mental pressure.
Boston’s advantages in Game 1 included:
- Strong team defense
- Size and physical matchups
- Better early-series preparation
For many Pinoy fans, Boston winning Game 1 felt almost expected.
The Filipino Love for the Mavericks’ Underdog Story
What truly captured Filipino hearts was Green’s belief in the Mavericks’ stars—Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.
Filipinos love players who:
- Carry the team on their shoulders
- Play with creativity and confidence
- Shine under pressure
Green believed that once Dallas adjusted, Luka’s basketball IQ and Kyrie’s Finals experience would eventually break Boston’s defense. That message—tiyaga (patience) and lakas ng loob (mental toughness)—resonated deeply with Filipino fans.
Draymond Green’s Full Series Prediction (2026 Revisited)
| Game | Predicted Winner | Filipino Fan Take |
|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Celtics | Better preparation and defense |
| Game 2 | Mavericks | Adjustments begin to work |
| Game 3 | Mavericks | Confidence builds at home |
| Game 4 | Mavericks | Star power takes control |
| Game 5 | Celtics | Pride and championship response |
| Game 6 | Mavericks | Heart, execution, and belief |
This prediction became a favorite topic in Philippine sports pages and NBA Facebook groups.
Why This Finals Still Matters to Filipinos in 2026
Even years later, Filipino fans still talk about this series because it represented everything we love about basketball:
- Superstars rising to the moment
- Teams learning and adjusting
- Championships earned through resilience
Green’s statement—“This is Luka Dončić’s moment, and Kyrie Irving knows how to win”—is now frequently quoted in NBA analysis, Luka Dončić legacy discussions, and Kyrie Irving championship debates, all of which remain high-traffic topics in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why did Draymond Green predict the Celtics to win Game 1?
Green believed Boston’s defense, size, and preparation would overwhelm Dallas early while the Mavericks adjusted to Finals intensity.
2. Why was Draymond Green so confident in the Mavericks winning the series?
He trusted Luka Dončić’s ability to control games and Kyrie Irving’s championship experience in pressure situations.
3. Why did this NBA Finals resonate so much with Filipino fans?
Filipinos love underdog stories, star players, and teams that show heart—qualities the Mavericks embodied.
4. How popular was this Finals series in the Philippines?
It was extremely popular, with watch parties, social media debates, and sports talk shows covering every game.
5. Did Draymond Green’s other playoff predictions that year affect his credibility?
Some were incorrect, but his Finals prediction stood out because of its detailed breakdown and strong basketball logic.
6. Why is this Finals still discussed in 2026?
Because it combined superstar narratives, tactical adjustments, and championship drama—everything fans love about the NBA.
Final Thoughts from a Filipino Basketball Fan (2026)
From Manila to Mindanao, this NBA Finals remains unforgettable. Draymond Green’s prediction wasn’t just analysis—it told a story of patience, belief, and championship mentality. For Filipino fans, it reminded us why basketball continues to inspire generations across the Philippines 🇵🇭🏀. (PKLIVE)