In 1946–47, the BAA (predecessor to the NBA) held its first Finals: Philadelphia Warriors vs. Chicago Stags. The Warriors won 4–1.

In 1949 the BAA merged with the NBL to become the NBA, carrying forward stats and honors, making this series part of the NBA’s origin story.

There was no three-point line. The game emphasized post and midrange play with slower pace but direct physicality. Media and commercialization were modest, yet the Finals narrative—city pride, star duels, tactical chess, and fan culture—took shape.

Since then: the Russell dynasty, Lakers–Celtics clashes, Jordan’s six titles, the Kobe–Duncan era, and the rise of the three-point revolution.

Looking back, the 1947 crowning wasn’t just a trophy—it began the tradition of the season’s grand finale and set the postseason as the ultimate measure of greatness.