Magic Johnson

It’s the greatest rivalry in professional sports for a reason. Down by a single point in the closing seconds of Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals, was there ever a doubt who would play the role of hero for the Los Angeles Lakers? En route to his third Finals MVP award, Johnson makes the impossible look routine, securing an inbound pass in a hostile Boston Garden. After a quick pump fake in the corner, the 12-time All-Star puts the ball on the floor, maneuvering his way into the lane to unfurl a flawless baby hook shot despite the efforts of three Boston Celtics defenders attempting to deny the iconic moment. The dagger – instantly immortalized as the joyful superstar’s ‘junior junior skyhook’ – sealed the Lakers’ 107-106 victory, giving them a commanding 3-1 series lead in the ultimate series. Five days later Johnson would secure his fourth of five championship rings - and his final championship victory over his longtime rival.

Championship Year

MVP Year