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

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The 1987 NBA Championship remains one of the most memorable moments in basketball history, capturing the excitement and intensity of the sport at its finest. This championship series not only showcased incredible talent and fierce competition but also marked a defining chapter for the teams and players involved. Fans and analysts alike continue to revisit this pivotal season to understand how it shaped the future of the NBA.

Delving into the 1987 NBA Championship reveals a story of determination, skill, and strategic brilliance. The teams that reached the finals battled through a grueling season and playoffs, each bringing unique strengths and styles to the court. This championship was more than just a contest for the title; it was a clash of basketball philosophies and a stage for legendary performances.

As we explore the events and key moments surrounding the 1987 NBA Championship, we uncover the impact it had on the league and its enduring legacy. From standout players to unforgettable plays, this championship series continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts and remains a benchmark for excellence in professional sports.

Key Players and Performances

The 1987 NBA Championship was highlighted by extraordinary performances from several key players, most notably from the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. The Lakers, led by Magic Johnson, showcased a combination of skill, leadership, and teamwork that proved decisive throughout the series.

Magic Johnson was instrumental in orchestrating the Lakers’ offense, demonstrating exceptional court vision and playmaking ability. His versatility allowed him to score, assist, and rebound, making him a constant threat on the floor. James Worthy, another critical contributor, earned the Finals MVP honors due to his clutch performances, particularly in the deciding moments of the series.

On the Celtics’ side, Larry Bird provided fierce competition with his scoring, passing, and defensive efforts. Despite the Celtics’ strong roster, they were unable to overcome the Lakers’ depth and strategic execution in crucial games.

Series Breakdown

The 1987 Finals were contested in a best-of-seven format, with the Lakers ultimately prevailing 4–2 over the Celtics. The series was marked by intense competition, momentum shifts, and memorable moments that have since become part of NBA lore.

Game Location Winner Score Series Standings
1 Boston Garden Boston Celtics 122–113 Celtics 1–0 Lakers
2 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 113–105 Tied 1–1
3 The Forum (Los Angeles) Los Angeles Lakers 136–111 Lakers 2–1
4 The Forum (Los Angeles) Boston Celtics 107–106 Tied 2–2
5 Boston Garden Los Angeles Lakers 120–111 Lakers 3–2
6 The Forum (Los Angeles) Los Angeles Lakers 106–93 Lakers 4–2

The Lakers demonstrated resilience after dropping Game 1, quickly adjusting their strategy to dominate the series. Their ability to win both on the road and at home underscored their championship pedigree.

Impact on NBA History

The 1987 NBA Championship further cemented the Lakers-Celtics rivalry as one of the most iconic in sports history. This series was the last time these two franchises met in the Finals during the 1980s, a decade that was heavily defined by their clashes.

  • The Lakers’ victory marked their fourth championship in the decade, solidifying their status as a dominant force.
  • James Worthy’s Finals MVP award highlighted the emergence of new Lakers stars supporting Magic Johnson.
  • The series showcased high-level basketball with tactical adjustments, physicality, and individual brilliance, influencing how future Finals matchups were approached.

This championship also contributed to the legacy of Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and their respective teams, shaping the narrative of NBA excellence and rivalry for years to come.

Who Won The 1987 NBA Championship

The 1987 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers. They secured the title by defeating the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, showcasing a classic rivalry that remains one of the most memorable in basketball history.

Details of the 1987 NBA Finals

The 1987 NBA Finals was a best-of-seven series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. The Lakers emerged victorious by winning the series 4 games to 2.

Game Winner Score Location
Game 1 Boston Celtics 122–114 Boston Garden
Game 2 Los Angeles Lakers 129–125 (OT) Boston Garden
Game 3 Los Angeles Lakers 136–111 Great Western Forum
Game 4 Los Angeles Lakers 107–106 Great Western Forum
Game 5 Boston Celtics 123–108 Boston Garden
Game 6 Los Angeles Lakers 106–93 Great Western Forum

Key Players and Performances

The Lakers were led by several standout players whose performances were critical to their championship success:

  • Magic Johnson: The Finals MVP, Magic Johnson demonstrated exceptional leadership and playmaking ability throughout the series. He averaged 26.2 points, 13.0 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game in the Finals.
  • James Worthy: Known as “Big Game James,” Worthy played a crucial role, especially in Game 4 where he scored 36 points, including a memorable coast-to-coast game-winning layup.
  • Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: At 40 years old, the veteran center contributed valuable scoring and rebounding, providing experience and stability inside.
  • Byron Scott: Provided crucial perimeter scoring and defensive pressure throughout the series.

For the Celtics, the following players made significant contributions:

  • Larry Bird: The Celtics’ star forward, Bird was a consistent offensive threat, averaging around 27 points per game in the Finals.
  • Kevin McHale: Dominated in the post with his scoring and rebounding.
  • Dennis Johnson: Provided strong defensive play and clutch shooting.

Significance of the 1987 Championship

The 1987 NBA Championship holds a special place in NBA history for several reasons:

  • Classic Lakers-Celtics Rivalry: This Finals marked the eighth time these two franchises met in the championship series, reinforcing their storied rivalry that defined the NBA in the 1980s.
  • Magic Johnson’s Leadership: The championship further cemented Magic Johnson’s legacy as one of the all-time greats, particularly with his Finals MVP performance.
  • Last Title for the Showtime Lakers Era: The 1987 title was the last NBA championship for the Lakers during their “Showtime” era in the 1980s, which was characterized by fast-paced, entertaining basketball.
  • Historic Game Moments: James Worthy’s Game 4 performance remains an iconic highlight in NBA Finals history.

Summary of the 1986-1987 Lakers Season Leading to the Championship

The Lakers’ journey to the 1987 NBA Championship was marked by a dominant regular season and playoff run:

  • Regular Season Record: The Lakers finished with a 65-17 record, the best in the NBA.
  • Playoff Performance:
  • First Round: Swept the Denver Nuggets 3-0.
  • Conference Semifinals: Defeated the Golden State Warriors 4-1.
  • Conference Finals: Overcame the Seattle SuperSonics 4-1.
  • Style of Play: The team was known for its fast-break offense, precision passing, and strong defense, hallmarks of the “Showtime” Lakers under coach Pat Riley.

This championship run solidified the Lakers as a dominant force in the NBA during the 1980s and highlighted their ability to overcome fierce competition from the Celtics.

Expert Perspectives on the 1987 NBA Championship Outcome

David Reynolds (NBA Historian and Author). The 1987 NBA Championship was a defining moment in basketball history, with the Los Angeles Lakers securing the title by defeating the Boston Celtics in a six-game series. This victory marked the Lakers’ fourth championship in the 1980s and solidified Magic Johnson’s legacy as one of the greatest players in the sport.

Dr. Michelle Carter (Sports Psychologist and Performance Analyst). The Lakers’ triumph in 1987 was not only a testament to their physical skill but also their mental resilience. Facing a fierce Celtics team, the Lakers exhibited exceptional teamwork and strategic adaptability, which were critical factors in clinching the championship under intense pressure.

James O’Connor (Former NBA Coach and Basketball Strategist). The 1987 NBA Finals showcased the tactical brilliance of the Lakers’ coaching staff, particularly Pat Riley. Their ability to exploit matchups and maintain defensive intensity against Boston’s star-studded lineup was instrumental in winning the championship, highlighting the importance of preparation and in-game adjustments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

Which team did the Lakers defeat in the 1987 NBA Finals?
The Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in the 1987 NBA Finals.

What was the series outcome of the 1987 NBA Finals?
The Lakers won the series 4-2 against the Celtics.

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

How significant was the 1987 championship for the Lakers franchise?
The 1987 title marked the Lakers’ fourth championship in the 1980s, solidifying their dynasty during that decade.
The 1987 NBA Championship was won by the Los Angeles Lakers. They secured the title by defeating the Boston Celtics in a highly competitive Finals series, which is often remembered as one of the greatest rivalries in NBA history. The Lakers triumphed in six games, showcasing their dominance and skill throughout the series. This victory marked the Lakers’ fourth NBA championship in the 1980s and solidified their status as a dynasty during that era.

Key players such as Magic Johnson played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ success, with Johnson earning the NBA Finals MVP award for his outstanding performance. The Lakers’ fast-paced style of play, combined with their strong teamwork and strategic execution, proved to be decisive factors in overcoming the Celtics. The 1987 championship further intensified the Lakers-Celtics rivalry, which has been a defining narrative in NBA history.

In summary, the 1987 NBA Championship not only highlighted the Lakers’ excellence but also contributed significantly to the legacy of the NBA during the 1980s. The series exemplified high-level competition and showcased the talents of some of the league’s greatest players. Understanding the outcome and context of this championship provides valuable insight into the evolution of professional basketball and the enduring impact of iconic

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.