Game 1 of the NBA finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors is all set to begin on June 2. But aside from the championship title, another major factor that's on the line is the iconic status of the team's key players.

In the upcoming series, Stephen Curry of Golden State and LeBron James of Cleveland will face one another in the most important game of the season. Of course, for fans, this also means the reputations of these players will be on the line.

As noted by Cleveland.com, James used to be the iconic face of the NBA before the arrival of Curry. However, almost immediately after the latter stepped inside the ring, things began to change.

Apart from his explosive performances during games, Curry was also able to make basketball history by becoming the NBA's first unanimous MVP. Aside from that, he was also MVP for two straight years.

In terms of numbers, James is also trailing behind Curry when it comes to the score average. The Warriors guard is averaging 30.1 points per night while James is at 25.3. Also, through his average points per game, Curry is currently the leader in the league. James, on the other hand, hasn't been at the top of the scoring list since 2008.

And if these are still not enough, Curry's team has already faced off against the Cavaliers last year. As NBA fans know, that match up did not end up well for James and the rest of Cleveland after Golden State ruled the series at 4-2.

So needless to say, this year's finals series serves as a rematch between the two teams and a chance for the Cavaliers to take revenge on the Warriors. But aside from this, the championship event is also James' chance to prove that he hasn't fallen yet behind the shadow of Curry.

But then again, as noted by these two superstar athletes, the upcoming event is not about them or their so-called rivalry. It's about every member of the team working together to achieve a common goal.