SAN ANTONIO -- LeBron James finally scaled the big stage, and like a bunch of burly bouncers, the San Antonio Spurs tossed him off it.

Welcome to the NBA Finals, young fella.

James couldn't solve San Antonio's stifling defense and the pick-and-rolling Spurs, as fundamental and selfless as ever, outclassed Cleveland in an 85-76 victory in Game 1 on Thursday night.

Tim Duncan had 24 points, 13 rebounds and five blocks, and Tony Parker added 27 points and seven assists for the Spurs, who began their quest for a fourth championship since 1999 with a defensive clinic on James and the Cavs, making their first appearance in the finals.

With the eyes of Texas, a curious hoops nation and the world upon him, the 22-year-old James, who has rarely failed to rise to any occasion, flopped like never before.

James shot just 4-of-16 from the field and finished with 14 points and six turnovers in 44 exhausting minutes. Led by Bruce Bowen, their top defensive agitator, the Spurs grounded Cleveland's soaring superstar

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