In this article, we dive into some of the longest NBA winning streaks in history, highlighting the teams that have managed to string together impressive sequences of victories.
These winning streaks not only highlight periods of dominance by some of the greatest teams in NBA history but also showcase the hard work and talent required to achieve such sustained success. Whether it’s the Warriors’ recent dominance, the Heat’s incredible run or the Lakers’ historic streak, the stretches detailed below are stained in the annals of NBA history and will prove difficult to erase.
The Golden State Warriors’ dynastic run in the mid-2010s was nothing short of spectacular, with their 15-game winning streak in the postseason standing out as the record for the longest NBA winning streak. This streak took place during the 2017 NBA Playoffs, as the Warriors swept through the Western Conference, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz and San Antonio Spurs.
They continued their streak by winning the first three games of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. This 15-game run demonstrated the Warriors’ exceptional talent and cohesion, as they featured stars like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.
The Miami Heat’s 27-game winning streak during the 2012-2013 season is one of the most impressive regular-season accomplishments in NBA history. Led by the “Big Three” of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, the Heat were virtually unstoppable from February 3, 2013, to March 27, 2013. This streak is the #2 on the list of the longest NBA winning streaks ever and included victories over some of the league’s top teams.
The Heat’s athletic defense, fast-paced offense and clutch performances by their superstars were key factors in this historic run. Although the streak ended with a loss to the Chicago Bulls, the Heat went on to win the NBA Championship that year, solidifying their legacy.
The Golden State Warriors’ 28-game winning streak, which spanned the end of the 2014-2015 season and the beginning of the 2015-2016 season, is another testament to their league-wide takeover. This streak is #2 in the regular season for the longest NBA winning streaks in history. The Warriors, under the guidance of head coach Steve Kerr and the leadership of Stephen Curry, started the 2015-2016 season with an unprecedented 24-0 record.
This run included impressive wins over top contenders with their revolutionary style of play, characterized by excellent ball movement, three-point shooting and the Draymond Green-led defense. The streak eventually ended with a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, but the Warriors’ 73-9 record for the season remains the best in NBA history.
The longest winning streak in NBA history belongs to the Los Angeles Lakers, who won 33 consecutive games during the 1971-1972 season. This incredible run began on November 5, 1971, lasting until January 9, 1972. Led by Hall of Famers Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West and Gail Goodrich, the Lakers dominated their opponents with a combination of size, skill and experience.
The streak included several close games and come-from-behind victories. This historic streak remains unbeaten and is a testament to the team’s greatness. The Lakers went on to win the NBA Championship that season, further cementing their place in basketball history.
While these streaks are some of the longest in NBA history, it’s worth mentioning other impressive runs. The Houston Rockets’ 22-game winning streak during the 2007-2008 season, led by Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming, stands out as a remarkable achievement. Additionally, the Milwaukee Bucks’ 20-game winning streak in the 1970-1971 season, featuring Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson, is also noteworthy.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.