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LeBron James credits 2011 Finals loss to Mavs as key to becoming dominant player he is today

Editor's note: This story was originally published on May 4.

In his storied career, LeBron James hasn't had too many low points. But the 2011 NBA Finals against the Mavs would probably qualify as one.

In his first season with the Miami Heat, James, James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh led the Heat to a 2-1 series lead over Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavs but lost three straight after, ultimately losing the series in six games. While the Mavs had plenty of star players -- Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Shawn Marion, Tyson Chandler and Jason Terry -- the coaching staff was loaded as well.