Paul Pierce Says Warriors 'Choked' in 2016 NBA Finals vs. Cavaliers

Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul Pierce knows what it takes to be a champion, and the former NBA Finals MVP had some harsh words for the Golden State Warriors in a recent interview regarding their performance in the 2016 Finals.

As seen in the following video, Pierce gave his thoughts regarding whether the Cleveland Cavaliers won the title more so than the Dubs gave it away in an interview for Bill Simmons' Any Given Wednesday on HBO:

In a transcript of the interview provided by Ben Golliver of SI.com, The Truth made it clear that he believes Golden State folded on the big stage after leading 3-1 in the series: "Golden State choked. Like, seriously, I mean 3-1? 3-1? You're not supposed to lose. 3-1, you should never lose. Golden State choked. [I] never [blew a 3-1 lead]. That would never happen."

Pierce has a strong case for the Hall of Fame and is among the best playoff performers of his era. In 163 career postseason games, he has averaged 19.4 points per game, which included two runs to the NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics and one title.

The 10-time All-Star is in the midst of his final NBA season and in search of another championship under head coach Doc Rivers.

The L.A. Clippers have a long history of playoff failures, however, as they have never gotten past the second round of the Western Conference playoffs. That is despite making the postseason in each of the past five years.

After taking a 2-0 lead, the Clips were ousted in the first round of the playoffs by the Portland Trail Blazers last season, but they are off to a strong 3-0 start in the 2016-17 regular season.

While the Warriors fell short of their second consecutive NBA title last season, they added Kevin Durant to a nucleus that already included Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.

Despite the hiccup, Golden State remains the team to beat in the Western Conference until Pierce's Clippers or any other team proves otherwise.

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