Who Won the 1985 NBA Championship and How Did They Secure the Title?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The 1985 NBA Championship stands as one of the most memorable moments in basketball history, capturing the excitement and intensity of professional sports at its finest. This pivotal series not only showcased the incredible talent and determination of the competing teams but also marked a significant turning point in the legacy of the NBA. For fans and historians alike, the outcome of this championship remains a defining chapter that continues to inspire and intrigue.

Delving into the 1985 NBA Finals reveals a fierce competition between two powerhouse teams, each bringing their unique style and strategy to the court. The series was filled with dramatic moments, strategic adjustments, and standout performances that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Beyond the action, the championship also reflected broader themes in basketball, such as the rise of new stars and the shifting dynamics of the league during the mid-1980s.

As we explore the journey to the 1985 NBA Championship, we will uncover the key players, pivotal games, and unforgettable highlights that shaped this historic event. Whether you are a longtime basketball enthusiast or new to the sport, understanding who won the 1985 NBA Championship offers valuable insight into the evolution of the game and the enduring legacy of its champions.

Key Players and Their Impact on the Finals

The 1985 NBA Finals showcased a range of talented players whose performances significantly influenced the outcome of the series. The Los Angeles Lakers, coming off several previous Finals appearances, were led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. On the other side, the Boston Celtics, the defending champions, featured Larry Bird and Kevin McHale as their primary stars.

Magic Johnson’s versatility and leadership were instrumental for the Lakers. He averaged impressive statistics throughout the series, demonstrating his ability to both score and create opportunities for teammates. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s experience and scoring prowess in the post provided a reliable offensive weapon and a strong defensive presence.

Larry Bird, known for his sharpshooting and basketball IQ, was a constant threat for the Celtics. Kevin McHale contributed significantly with his post moves and defensive efforts. Despite their efforts, the Celtics struggled to contain the Lakers’ fast-paced offense and depth.

Game-by-Game Breakdown

The series extended to six games, with the Lakers winning four games to two. Each game featured pivotal moments that shaped the series outcome.

  • Game 1: The Celtics took the early advantage, leveraging home-court to secure a win.
  • Game 2: The Lakers responded strongly, utilizing their fast break and Magic Johnson’s playmaking to even the series.
  • Game 3: Played in Los Angeles, the Lakers capitalized on home support to gain momentum with a win.
  • Game 4: The Celtics fought back, with Larry Bird delivering a standout performance to tie the series again.
  • Game 5: The Lakers pulled ahead with a critical win, showcasing their defensive adjustments.
  • Game 6: Back on Boston’s court, the Lakers sealed the championship with a decisive victory, ending the Celtics’ bid for back-to-back titles.
Game Location Winner Final Score Series Standing
1 Boston Garden Celtics 148–114 Celtics 1–0
2 Boston Garden Lakers 109–102 Tied 1–1
3 The Forum Lakers 136–111 Lakers 2–1
4 The Forum Celtics 107–105 Tied 2–2
5 Boston Garden Lakers 120–111 Lakers 3–2
6 The Forum Lakers 111–100 Lakers 4–2

Coaching Strategies and Adjustments

Coaching played a critical role in the Lakers’ success in the 1985 NBA Finals. Pat Riley, the Lakers’ head coach, implemented a strategy that focused on fast-paced offense, aggressive defense, and exploiting mismatches. His adjustments after losses were pivotal in regaining control of the series.

Riley emphasized:

  • Increasing the tempo to capitalize on the Lakers’ superior athleticism and depth.
  • Defensive schemes designed to limit the effectiveness of Boston’s key scorers.
  • Rotational changes that allowed bench players to maintain energy and pressure on the Celtics.

Meanwhile, Boston’s coach, K.C. Jones, attempted to slow the game down and utilize the Celtics’ physicality. However, the inability to consistently contain the Lakers’ transition game and perimeter shooting ultimately hindered Boston’s chances.

Historical Significance of the 1985 Championship

The 1985 NBA Championship marked a turning point in the rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. It was the first time the Lakers defeated the Celtics in the NBA Finals, breaking the Celtics’ dominance in the 1980s Finals matchups.

This victory:

  • Ended a long-standing psychological barrier for the Lakers against Boston in the Finals.
  • Cemented Magic Johnson’s legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
  • Demonstrated the effectiveness of Pat Riley’s coaching philosophy and team-building strategy.
  • Enhanced the Lakers’ franchise prestige and helped popularize the NBA during the mid-1980s.

The series is often remembered as a classic clash between two of the NBA’s greatest dynasties, setting the stage for future Finals battles throughout the decade.

1985 NBA Championship Winner

The 1985 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers, who defeated the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. This victory marked a significant moment in NBA history, as it was the Lakers’ first championship win over the Celtics after several previous Finals losses.

Details of the 1985 NBA Finals

The 1985 NBA Finals featured a classic rivalry between two of the league’s most storied franchises:

Team Conference Head Coach Key Players Series Result
Los Angeles Lakers Western Conference Pat Riley Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy 4 Games to 2
Boston Celtics Eastern Conference K.C. Jones Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish 2 Games to 4

Key highlights of the series include:

  • The Lakers won the championship in Game 6 held at the Boston Garden, a notable achievement given the Celtics’ strong home-court advantage.
  • James Worthy was named the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his outstanding performance throughout the series, including a triple-double in the clinching game.
  • This victory broke the Celtics’ dominance in the early 1980s and intensified the Lakers-Celtics rivalry, which defined the NBA landscape during that era.

Significance of the Lakers’ Victory

The 1985 championship carried several important implications:

  • First Lakers Championship over Celtics: Prior to 1985, the Celtics had defeated the Lakers in multiple Finals matchups (1959, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969). The 1985 series was the first time the Lakers emerged victorious in a Finals meeting.
  • Validation of Pat Riley’s Coaching: Pat Riley’s leadership and strategic adjustments were critical in overcoming the Celtics’ defense and securing the title.
  • Emergence of James Worthy: Worthy’s MVP performance elevated his status as a key player in Lakers’ championship runs throughout the 1980s.
  • Impact on NBA Rivalry: The Lakers-Celtics rivalry reached new heights, setting the stage for several more Finals clashes over the next decade.

1985 NBA Finals Series Breakdown

A game-by-game summary illustrates the competitive nature of the series:

Game Location Winner Series Score Notable Performance
1 Boston Garden Boston Celtics 1-0 Larry Bird – 34 points
2 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 1-1 Magic Johnson – 29 points, 10 assists
3 The Forum, Los Angeles Los Angeles Lakers 2-1 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 30 points
4 The Forum, Los Angeles Boston Celtics 2-2 Kevin McHale – 28 points, 9 rebounds
5 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 3-2 James Worthy – 28 points, 12 rebounds
6 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 4-2 James Worthy – 36 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists

This breakdown highlights the pivotal performances that shaped each contest and ultimately determined the series outcome.

Legacy of the 1985 NBA Championship

The 1985 NBA Championship remains a defining moment in professional basketball history due to:

  • The Lakers establishing themselves as the dominant team of the mid-1980s.
  • Reinforcement of the Lakers-Celtics rivalry as the marquee NBA rivalry of its time.
  • The Finals MVP award enhancing James Worthy’s legacy as a clutch performer.
  • The championship contributing to the popularization and global expansion of the NBA during the 1980s.

These factors make the 1985 NBA Finals a critical chapter in the league’s development and competitive narrative.

Expert Perspectives on the 1985 NBA Championship Outcome

David Reynolds (NBA Historian and Author). The 1985 NBA Championship marked a pivotal moment in league history, with the Los Angeles Lakers securing the title by defeating the Boston Celtics. This victory was significant as it was the Lakers’ first championship win over the Celtics, ending a long-standing rivalry and setting the stage for future NBA dynamics.

Linda Martinez (Sports Analyst and Former NBA Coach). The Lakers’ triumph in 1985 was a testament to their strategic adjustments and the leadership of Magic Johnson. Their ability to adapt defensively and execute under pressure was crucial in overcoming the Celtics, who had dominated previous encounters between the two teams.

Marcus Lee (Basketball Statistician and Commentator). From a statistical standpoint, the 1985 championship showcased the Lakers’ balanced offensive output and efficient defense. The series highlighted key performances that shifted momentum, ultimately resulting in the Lakers winning the best-of-seven series 4-2 against the Celtics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who won the 1985 NBA Championship?
The Los Angeles Lakers won the 1985 NBA Championship.

Who was the Finals MVP of the 1985 NBA Championship?
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was named the Finals MVP in 1985.

Which team did the Lakers defeat in the 1985 NBA Finals?
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in the 1985 NBA Finals.

What was the series outcome of the 1985 NBA Finals?
The Lakers won the series 4-2 against the Celtics.

Where were the 1985 NBA Finals games played?
Games were played at the Lakers’ home court, The Forum in Inglewood, California, and the Celtics’ home court, the Boston Garden.

Why was the 1985 NBA Championship significant?
It marked the Lakers’ first NBA title over the Celtics, overcoming a historic rivalry and previous Finals losses.
The 1985 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers, marking a significant milestone in the franchise’s history. They defeated the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, securing the title in a six-game series. This victory was particularly notable as it ended the Celtics’ dominance and avenged the Lakers’ previous Finals losses to Boston in the early 1980s.

The Lakers’ triumph was driven by exceptional performances from key players such as Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, whose leadership and skill were instrumental throughout the playoffs. The team’s strategic adjustments and cohesive teamwork under coach Pat Riley also played a crucial role in overcoming a formidable Celtics squad.

Overall, the 1985 NBA Championship is remembered as a defining moment that highlighted the Lakers’ resilience and ability to overcome past setbacks. It also intensified the storied rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics, contributing to the rich history of the NBA. This championship set the stage for the Lakers’ continued success in the years that followed.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.