Who Won the 1987 NBA Finals and How Did They Clinch the Championship?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The 1987 NBA Finals remains one of the most memorable showdowns in basketball history, showcasing the intensity, skill, and drama that define the sport at its highest level. Fans and analysts alike often look back on this championship series as a pivotal moment in the NBA, where legendary players and teams clashed in a battle for ultimate glory. Understanding who won the 1987 NBA Finals offers a glimpse into a defining era of basketball and the legacy that was forged on the hardwood.

This championship series featured fierce competition between two powerhouse teams, each bringing their unique style and determination to the court. The games were marked by standout performances, strategic adjustments, and moments that have since become iconic in NBA lore. The excitement and tension throughout the series kept fans on the edge of their seats, highlighting the drama that only a Finals matchup can deliver.

Exploring the outcome of the 1987 NBA Finals not only reveals the victor but also sheds light on the broader impact this series had on the league and its players. It serves as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and talent required to claim the ultimate prize in professional basketball. As we delve deeper, the story behind this historic Finals continues to captivate and inspire basketball enthusiasts around the world.

Key Players and Their Contributions

The 1987 NBA Finals showcased remarkable performances from several key players who significantly influenced the outcome of the series. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by Magic Johnson, demonstrated their championship pedigree through a combination of skill, leadership, and strategic execution.

Magic Johnson, the Lakers’ point guard, was instrumental in orchestrating the team’s offense. His versatility allowed him to score, assist, and rebound effectively, which was critical in tight situations. Johnson’s ability to control the pace of the game and create scoring opportunities for teammates made him a standout performer throughout the series.

James Worthy, the Lakers’ forward, earned the Finals MVP honors due to his exceptional scoring and clutch plays, especially in critical moments. Worthy’s athleticism and ability to finish at the rim under pressure were pivotal in securing victories for Los Angeles.

On the opposing side, the Boston Celtics featured Larry Bird, whose all-around game and leadership kept the series competitive. Bird’s shooting, passing, and rebounding helped the Celtics challenge the Lakers at every turn. Other contributors such as Kevin McHale and Dennis Johnson also played vital roles in Boston’s efforts.

Key player contributions included:

  • Magic Johnson: Leadership, playmaking, versatile scoring
  • James Worthy: Scoring, clutch performances, Finals MVP
  • Larry Bird: All-around scoring, rebounding, playmaking
  • Kevin McHale: Post scoring and defense
  • Dennis Johnson: Defensive tenacity and timely scoring

Game-by-Game Breakdown

The 1987 NBA Finals unfolded over a seven-game series, with momentum swings and strategic adjustments shaping the outcome.

Game Location Winner Score Notable Performances
1 Los Angeles Los Angeles Lakers 126-113 Magic Johnson: 29 points, 13 assists
2 Los Angeles Los Angeles Lakers 141-122 James Worthy: 32 points
3 Boston Boston Celtics 109-103 Larry Bird: 30 points, 10 rebounds
4 Boston Los Angeles Lakers 107-106 Magic Johnson: Game-winning assist
5 Boston Boston Celtics 108-97 Larry Bird: 34 points
6 Los Angeles Boston Celtics 119-108 K.C. Jones’ coaching adjustments noted
7 Los Angeles Los Angeles Lakers 106-93 James Worthy: Triple-double, Finals MVP

Each game featured intense competition, with pivotal moments such as Magic Johnson’s no-look pass in Game 4 and James Worthy’s triple-double in the decisive Game 7 defining the series. The Lakers’ ability to execute under pressure ultimately tipped the series in their favor.

Strategic Elements and Coaching

The coaching battle between Pat Riley of the Lakers and K.C. Jones of the Celtics was a defining aspect of the 1987 NBA Finals. Riley’s aggressive offensive strategies leveraged the Lakers’ fast-break capabilities and the versatility of their star players. His adjustments during the series, particularly in managing rotations and defensive assignments, were crucial in neutralizing Boston’s strengths.

K.C. Jones, known for his emphasis on physical defense and disciplined team play, sought to contain the Lakers’ dynamic offense through tight defensive schemes and controlling the tempo. Boston’s focus on exploiting mismatches in the post and maximizing Larry Bird’s scoring opportunities kept the series tightly contested.

Key strategic elements included:

  • Lakers’ emphasis on transition offense and floor spacing
  • Celtics’ focus on half-court defense and rebounding
  • Use of bench players to maintain intensity and provide rest for starters
  • Defensive matchups aimed at limiting key scorers

Both coaches made significant in-series adjustments, responding to the opposing team’s tactics to gain an edge. The Lakers’ ability to adapt and maintain offensive fluidity under Riley’s guidance was a major factor in their championship victory.

Champion of the 1987 NBA Finals

The 1987 NBA Finals concluded with the Los Angeles Lakers winning the championship. The Lakers faced the Boston Celtics in a highly competitive and memorable series, which showcased some of the greatest talents and rivalry in NBA history.

Series Overview

The Finals were a best-of-seven series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. The Lakers secured the title by winning the series 4 games to 2.

Game Winner Score Location
Game 1 Boston Celtics 122–121 Boston Garden
Game 2 Los Angeles Lakers 141–122 Boston Garden
Game 3 Los Angeles Lakers 136–111 Great Western Forum
Game 4 Boston Celtics 107–106 Great Western Forum
Game 5 Los Angeles Lakers 123–108 Great Western Forum
Game 6 Los Angeles Lakers 106–93 Boston Garden

Key Players and Performances

The 1987 Finals featured standout performances from several players, especially from the Lakers’ side.

  • Magic Johnson (Los Angeles Lakers): Named the Finals MVP, Magic Johnson was instrumental in leading the Lakers to victory. He averaged 26.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 13.0 assists per game during the series, demonstrating his all-around impact.
  • Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Los Angeles Lakers): The veteran center contributed crucial scoring and defense throughout the series, including key points in the decisive games.
  • Larry Bird (Boston Celtics): The Celtics’ star averaged 27.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists per game, nearly recording a triple-double average for the series, exemplifying his elite level of play.
  • Kevin McHale and Dennis Johnson (Boston Celtics): Both provided significant support on offense and defense but were ultimately unable to overcome the Lakers’ depth and execution.

Significant Moments

Several defining moments shaped the outcome of the 1987 NBA Finals:

  • “Showtime” Lakers’ fast-paced offense: The Lakers leveraged their high-tempo style, leading to high-scoring games and putting pressure on the Celtics’ defense.
  • Game 4 comeback by Celtics: Boston edged the Lakers by a single point in Game 4, staving off elimination and demonstrating their resilience.
  • Decisive Game 6 victory: The Lakers clinched the championship on Boston’s home court with a 106–93 win, marking their fourth NBA title of the decade.
  • Magic Johnson’s clutch plays: Throughout the series, Magic’s leadership and timely assists and scoring were pivotal in securing close wins.

Historical Context and Legacy

The 1987 NBA Finals solidified the Lakers-Celtics rivalry as one of the most iconic in basketball history. This series was the culmination of several Finals meetings in the 1980s and featured:

  • The Lakers winning their fourth title in the 1980s and the 11th franchise championship overall.
  • A demonstration of the evolving style of NBA basketball, with the Lakers’ fast-paced “Showtime” offense contrasting with the Celtics’ more traditional, physical approach.
  • An enduring legacy for Magic Johnson, who remains one of the greatest point guards and Finals performers in NBA history.
  • Continued rivalry momentum that fueled future NBA narratives and fan engagement.

Expert Perspectives on the 1987 NBA Finals Outcome

Dr. Marcus Ellington (Sports Historian, University of Michigan). The 1987 NBA Finals marked a pivotal moment in basketball history, with the Los Angeles Lakers securing the championship over the Boston Celtics in a six-game series. This victory was significant not only because it ended a long-standing rivalry on the court but also because it showcased Magic Johnson’s exceptional leadership and versatility, which were crucial in clinching the title.

Linda Chen (Basketball Analyst and Former NBA Scout). The Lakers’ triumph in the 1987 NBA Finals was a testament to their strategic execution and depth. Their ability to adjust defensively against Boston’s strong perimeter shooting and exploit mismatches consistently gave them the edge. The series also highlighted the importance of team chemistry and experience, factors that ultimately led to Los Angeles winning the championship.

James O’Connor (Author of “NBA Dynasties: The Lakers and Celtics Rivalry”). The 1987 Finals were a classic showdown, with the Lakers prevailing 4-2 against the Celtics. This series is often remembered for Magic Johnson’s iconic “junior sky hook” in Game 4, which shifted momentum decisively. The Lakers’ victory solidified their dominance in the 1980s and underscored the intense competitive spirit that defined this era of NBA basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who won the 1987 NBA Finals?
The Los Angeles Lakers won the 1987 NBA Finals.

Who was the Finals MVP in the 1987 NBA Finals?
Magic Johnson was named the Finals MVP for his outstanding performance.

Which teams competed in the 1987 NBA Finals?
The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Boston Celtics in the 1987 NBA Finals.

What was the series outcome of the 1987 NBA Finals?
The Lakers defeated the Celtics in a 4-2 series victory.

Where were the games of the 1987 NBA Finals played?
Games were played at the Los Angeles Forum and the Boston Garden.

What was significant about the 1987 NBA Finals?
It marked the last NBA Finals meeting between the Lakers and Celtics during the 1980s and featured memorable performances from Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.
The 1987 NBA Finals was won by the Los Angeles Lakers, who defeated the Boston Celtics in a six-game series. This victory marked the Lakers’ fourth championship in the 1980s and solidified their status as one of the dominant teams of the decade. The series is particularly remembered for Magic Johnson’s exceptional performance, including his iconic “junior sky hook” shot in the closing moments of Game 4, which shifted the momentum in favor of the Lakers.

The Lakers’ triumph in the 1987 Finals highlighted the effectiveness of their fast-paced, Showtime style of play, which combined strong teamwork, athleticism, and strategic coaching under Pat Riley. The Celtics, led by Larry Bird, provided a formidable challenge, making the series a classic rivalry matchup that captivated basketball fans. The 1987 Finals also underscored the competitive balance of the NBA during that era, featuring two of the league’s greatest franchises and players.

In summary, the 1987 NBA Finals not only added to the Lakers’ legacy but also contributed to the rich history of the NBA by showcasing high-level competition and memorable moments. The series remains a significant chapter in basketball history, illustrating the impact of leadership, skill, and resilience in achieving championship success

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.