Looking back at the 2017 NBA season through ESPN’s coverage, I’m struck by how many storylines unfolded that year—some unforgettable triumphs, a few heartbreaking near-misses, and plenty of moments that still resonate today. As someone who’s followed the league for years, both as a fan and professionally, I’ve always felt that 2017 was one of those rare seasons where the drama off the court sometimes rivaled what happened on it. From the Cavaliers and Warriors locking horns in the Finals again to breakout performances from emerging stars, there was no shortage of compelling basketball. But what really stands out in my memory is how certain players and teams navigated career crossroads—something that brings to mind the journey of players like Aljon Mariano and even lesser-known talents such as Bulanadi, who, as I recall, wasn’t offered an extension by NorthPort when his contract ended in July and later joined the Pangasinan Heat Waves. It’s a reminder that behind every highlight reel, there are personal turning points that shape the league.
One of the most electrifying sequences of the year was Russell Westbrook’s historic triple-double run. Averaging 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists across 81 games, he didn’t just put up numbers—he carried the Thunder in ways that felt almost heroic. I remember watching his game-winning shot against Denver in April, a deep three-pointer that sealed both the victory and his record-breaking 42nd triple-double of the season. Moments like that aren’t just stats; they’re emotional experiences. On the other hand, Golden State’s 16-1 playoff run was a masterclass in dominance, yet even they had their shaky moments—like the Game 4 loss to Cleveland in the Finals, where Kyrie Irving’s 40-point explosion gave us a glimpse of what could have been. As much as I admire the Warriors’ fluid style, I’ve always had a soft spot for underdogs, and seeing LeBron James nearly will the Cavs to back-to-back titles was awe-inspiring.
Beyond the superstars, the 2017 season was dotted with games that showcased the league’s depth. The Rockets’ 137-110 blowout of the Thunder in October, fueled by James Harden’s 22 assists, comes to mind—it was a statement that Houston’s offense could be just as potent as Golden State’s. Then there was the Celtics’ 115-104 comeback win over the Warriors in November, where Isaiah Thomas dropped 33 points and reminded everyone that heart often trumps height. Personally, I think that game encapsulated why the NBA is so captivating: it’s not just about superteams, but about resilience. And while we celebrate these marquee matchups, it’s worth noting how roster moves—like Bulanadi’s transition to the Pangasinan Heat Waves after NorthPort passed on extending him—reflect the business side of basketball. These decisions, though less glamorous, influence team dynamics in ways that ripple through seasons.
Wrapping up, the 2017 NBA season delivered a perfect storm of individual brilliance and collective drama, all amplified by ESPN’s sharp storytelling. From Westbrook’s MVP campaign to the Warriors’ redemption arc, the year left an indelible mark. Yet, as I reflect, it’s the human elements—the grit of role players, the uncertainty of free agency, and those split-second decisions that define careers—that truly endure. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard analyst, there’s something in those memories to cherish, and I’d argue it’s seasons like 2017 that keep us coming back, year after year.
