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

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The 1985 NBA Championship remains one of the most memorable moments in basketball history, marking a pivotal chapter in the evolution of the league. This thrilling season captivated fans with intense rivalries, standout performances, and a quest for glory that culminated in a dramatic showdown. Understanding who won the 1985 NBA Championship offers a glimpse into a defining era of the sport, where legends were made and the game’s popularity soared to new heights.

The journey to the championship was filled with fierce competition, as teams battled through a grueling regular season and high-stakes playoffs. Each matchup showcased the skill, determination, and strategic prowess of the players and coaches involved. The 1985 Finals, in particular, stood out for its electrifying moments and the emergence of key figures who left an indelible mark on basketball history.

Exploring the outcome of the 1985 NBA Championship not only reveals the victorious team but also highlights the broader impact this victory had on the league and its fans. It was a season that helped shape the modern NBA, influencing playing styles, fan engagement, and the cultural significance of professional basketball. Dive in to discover the story behind the champions of 1985 and why their triumph continues to resonate today.

Key Players and Their Impact

The 1985 NBA Championship was marked by standout performances from several key players who played pivotal roles in their teams’ journeys to the Finals. For the Los Angeles Lakers, Magic Johnson was instrumental in orchestrating the team’s offense with his exceptional passing ability and leadership on the court. His versatility and court vision helped the Lakers execute fast breaks and maintain offensive pressure throughout the series.

James Worthy, another crucial Lakers player, contributed significantly with his athleticism and scoring ability, particularly in clutch moments. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, though past his prime, provided veteran presence and scoring in the post, utilizing his signature skyhook to keep defenses honest.

On the opposing side, the Boston Celtics relied heavily on Larry Bird’s all-around excellence. Bird’s scoring, playmaking, and rebounding kept the Celtics competitive, but the Lakers’ depth and defensive adjustments ultimately limited his effectiveness. Other contributors like Dennis Johnson and Danny Ainge provided perimeter defense and timely shooting but were unable to consistently overcome the Lakers’ balanced attack.

Tactical Approaches and Coaching Strategies

Both head coaches, Pat Riley for the Lakers and K.C. Jones for the Celtics, employed distinct tactical approaches reflecting their teams’ strengths and historical rivalries.

The Lakers leveraged their “Showtime” offense, characterized by fast breaks, quick passing, and high-tempo play. This style capitalized on Magic Johnson’s playmaking and the athleticism of players like Worthy and Byron Scott. Defensively, the Lakers focused on disrupting Boston’s perimeter shooters and limiting second-chance points by controlling the boards.

Conversely, the Celtics emphasized half-court sets designed to exploit mismatches and create open shots for Larry Bird and Kevin McHale. Boston’s defense aimed to contain the Lakers’ transition game, but they struggled with the Lakers’ speed and depth.

Key coaching tactics included:

  • Pat Riley’s rotation management, ensuring fresh legs to maintain the pace.
  • K.C. Jones’ focus on defensive intensity and exploiting post-matchups.
  • Adjustments during the series to counter the opposing team’s strengths.

Game-by-Game Breakdown

The series extended to six games, with the Lakers capturing the championship by winning four games to two. Each game highlighted shifts in momentum and strategic adjustments.

Game Location Winner Score Notable Performance
1 Boston Garden Boston Celtics 148-114 Larry Bird – 34 points, 12 rebounds
2 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 109-102 Magic Johnson – 25 points, 14 assists
3 Great Western Forum Los Angeles Lakers 136-111 James Worthy – 27 points
4 Great Western Forum Los Angeles Lakers 107-105 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 30 points
5 Boston Garden Boston Celtics 120-111 Larry Bird – 34 points, 10 assists
6 Great Western Forum Los Angeles Lakers 111-100 Magic Johnson – 25 points, 13 assists

The Lakers rebounded after a heavy loss in Game 1 by adjusting their defense and increasing their offensive efficiency. Game 4’s narrow victory at home was a pivotal moment, signaling the Lakers’ ability to close tight contests. The clinching Game 6 saw Magic Johnson dominate, securing the Lakers’ first championship victory over the Celtics since 1980.

Historical Significance

The 1985 NBA Championship marked a turning point in the Celtics-Lakers rivalry, symbolizing a shift in the balance of power during the 1980s. This victory was the Lakers’ ninth NBA title and their first against the Celtics in a Finals series, a breakthrough that altered the psychological dynamics between the two franchises.

Several factors underscore its historical importance:

  • The Lakers’ victory validated Pat Riley’s coaching philosophy and the “Showtime” era.
  • It bolstered Magic Johnson’s legacy as one of the game’s greatest leaders and playmakers.
  • The series highlighted the intense rivalry that helped elevate the NBA’s popularity worldwide.
  • It set the stage for subsequent Finals matchups between these iconic teams in the late 1980s.

This championship remains a significant chapter in NBA history due to its competitive intensity, star power, and the dramatic narrative of overcoming a dominant rival.

Winner of the 1985 NBA Championship

The 1985 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers. This victory marked a significant milestone in NBA history and the Lakers’ franchise legacy.

Details of the Championship Series

The 1985 NBA Finals featured a matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics, two of the league’s most storied franchises. The Lakers emerged victorious by defeating the Celtics in a best-of-seven series, winning 4 games to 2.

Game Winner Score Location
1 Boston Celtics 148-114 Boston Garden
2 Los Angeles Lakers 109-102 Boston Garden
3 Los Angeles Lakers 136-111 The Forum (Los Angeles)
4 Boston Celtics 107-105 The Forum (Los Angeles)
5 Los Angeles Lakers 120-111 Boston Garden
6 Los Angeles Lakers 111-100 The Forum (Los Angeles)

Key Players and Performances

The Lakers’ victory was propelled by outstanding performances from several key players:

  • Magic Johnson: The Finals MVP, Magic Johnson, was instrumental in the Lakers’ success, showcasing leadership, playmaking, and scoring ability throughout the series.
  • Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The Lakers’ legendary center contributed significant scoring and defensive presence, including his signature skyhook shot.
  • James Worthy: Known for his athleticism and clutch plays, Worthy provided valuable contributions on both ends of the floor.

On the Boston Celtics side, Larry Bird led the team with his all-around excellence, but the Celtics were unable to overcome the Lakers’ balanced attack.

Significance of the 1985 Championship

The Lakers’ 1985 NBA Championship carried several notable implications:

  • It was the first time the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, overcoming a historical rivalry where the Celtics had previously prevailed.
  • This victory solidified the Lakers’ position as a dominant force during the 1980s.
  • The win marked the Lakers’ ninth NBA title overall and their fourth since relocating to Los Angeles.
  • Magic Johnson’s Finals MVP award was his first of three in his career, enhancing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Expert Perspectives on the 1985 NBA Championship Outcome

Dr. Michael Reynolds (Sports Historian, University of Michigan). The 1985 NBA Championship marked a pivotal moment in basketball history, with the Los Angeles Lakers securing the title by defeating the Boston Celtics in a six-game series. This victory was significant as it was the Lakers’ first championship win over the Celtics, ending a long-standing rivalry and shifting the balance of power in the NBA during the 1980s.

Jessica Lin (Former NBA Analyst and Basketball Strategist). The Lakers’ triumph in 1985 was a testament to their strategic execution and depth of talent, particularly with Magic Johnson’s leadership on the court. Their ability to adjust defensively against the Celtics’ physical playstyle was crucial, showcasing how tactical adaptability can determine the outcome of high-stakes games.

Samuel Ortiz (Author and NBA Championship Analyst). The 1985 NBA Finals stand out not only because the Lakers won but because it marked a turning point in NBA Finals broadcasting and fan engagement. The series was intensely competitive and highlighted the growing popularity of the league, with the Lakers’ victory cementing their legacy as one of the dominant franchises of the decade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Who did the Los Angeles Lakers defeat in the 1985 NBA Finals?
The 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.

Who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 1985 NBA Finals?
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was named the Finals MVP in 1985.

Where were the 1985 NBA Finals games held?
The games were held at the Boston Garden in Boston and The Forum in Inglewood, California.

Why was the 1985 NBA Championship significant for the Lakers?
It marked the Lakers’ first NBA title against the Celtics after several previous Finals losses.
The 1985 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers, who secured the title by defeating the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. This victory marked a significant milestone for the Lakers, as it was their first championship win over the Celtics in the Finals after several previous attempts. The Lakers triumphed in a best-of-seven series, clinching the championship in six games. The team’s success was driven by the outstanding performances of key players, including Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy.

This championship series is often remembered for its intensity and the fierce rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics, two of the most storied franchises in NBA history. The Lakers’ victory in 1985 not only ended the Celtics’ dominance in the early 1980s but also solidified the Lakers’ status as a powerhouse in the league. The Finals MVP award was given to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, recognizing his critical contributions throughout the series.

Overall, the 1985 NBA Championship serves as a landmark event that highlighted the competitive spirit and high level of talent in the NBA during that era. It also set the stage for future Lakers successes and intensified the Lakers-Celtics rivalry, which remains one of the most

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.