NBA MVP 2013 Lebron James surprised the crowd with his unusual display of sportsmanship after winning Game 7 of the Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.

James, 28, had once “represented to the world about self-indulgence and hubris,” wrote Yahoo Sports writer. Yet, his show of respect was a salute to those San Antonio Spurs responsible for making demands of his talents, which brought out the best out of best the MVP and basketball.

As the crowd flooded the floor, James found Duncan and embraced him tightly. It was just six years ago, Duncan had thanked him for letting the Spurs win the NBA Finals. Then, James took the Finals MVP trophy six years later and then in the consecutive year.

In Game 7, James brought out the best of his talents with 37 points and 12 rebounds in a 95-88 victory for the Miami Heat on Thursday night.

“This series was a referendum on everything basketball ought to be at the highest level,” wrote Yahoo Sports writer, noting that the entire Final series was an epic run, but game 6 will be remembered as the “greatest Finals game.”

James ended the night by giving credit to the Spurs.

“They pushed us to the limit,” he said.

“They pushed the Heat to the limit and elevated the elegance of the sport, the grace, the competitive ferocity and sportsmanship,” wrote Yahoo Sports.