The Los Angeles Lakers had their doubters throughout the 2010 NBA Finals, but Kobe Bryant and company proved their critics wrong on Thursday night to claim the franchise’s 17th championship title. Many thought that after the Boston took a 3-2 lead heading back to Los Angeles that the Celtics were destined for the Larry O’Brien Trophy, but gritty play from numerous Lakers made the difference. Bryant had an awful night from the field (making just 6 out of 24 shots), but brought down an impressive 15 rebounds. Although Kobe took home the NBA Finals MVP Award, it was his teammates that made LA’s championship possible. First-time NBA champion Ron Artest rose to the occasion with his trademark lock down defense on Paul Pierce, scoring 20 points, notching 5 steals, and hitting a absolutely crucial three pointer with one minute left in the game. Pau Gasol got the best of Boston’s Kevin Garnett in the end with a dominated performance down low. The Spaniard scored 19 points with 18 rebounds in 42 minutes on the court. It was truly a team victory for the LA Lakers last night. Hats off to Hollywood.

While taking in the NBA Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics, Dwyane Wade told the media he will begin free agency by looking for another NBA star to join him in Miami. The Heat were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs this year, and need a roster make over if they want to compete for a NBA title in the near future. Outside of Wade, Michael Beasley is really the only potential star on Miami’s roster currently. A dominant power forward like Chris Bosh or Amare Stoudemire could be just what Wade needs. That alone won’t be enough to win a NBA title, but if the Heat can get the right role players around two marquee stars things could be different. Wade, at 28, will be a big positive for Miami when recruiting free agents this summer. After struggling in the early half of the season, Miami ended the regular season strong, winning 12 of their last 13 games. The future of the franchise will largely be determined with this summer’s free agency, but things are looking promising for the Heat coming out of Camp Dwyane.