The Game of the Century: Celtics vs Lakers in 1984 NBA Finals

It was a matchup that had been brewing for years, as the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers had developed one of the fiercest rivalries in NBA history. But when they met in the 1984 NBA Finals, nobody could have predicted what was about to unfold.

The series was tied 2-2 heading into Game 5, and both teams knew that they were one win away from taking control of the series. The game was played in the Boston Garden, where the Celtics had only lost once all season.

The first half was tight, with both teams trading baskets and playing tough defense. The Celtics held a slim lead at halftime, but the Lakers didn't falter. In the second half, Laker great, Magic Johnson turned up his game to become unstoppable. Johnson was on fire and was scoring from everywhere on the court. He was also controlling the game with his brilliant passing, and the Lakers started to pull away.new balance 302 sea salt

However, in the fourth quarter, Celtics veteran Larry Bird began to take over. Bird hit shot after shot and made some incredible passes of his own. His leadership and clutch play inspired his teammates, and the Celtics started chipping away at the lead.

With only a few seconds left on the clock, and the Celtics down by one, Bird received the inbound pass and took a jump shot from the top of the key. It seemed like the ball hung in the air for an eternity before finally dropping through the hoop, giving the Celtics a dramatic one-point victory.jordan 4 red thunder back tab

The Boston Garden erupted with cheers as Bird pumped his fists in triumph. The game had been an epic battle between two of the greatest teams and players ever to grace the basketball court.

Years later, this game is still considered one of the greatest in NBA history, and it lives on in the memories of fans who were lucky enough to witness it.