The Celtics vs. Lakers rivalry is one of the most storied and iconic rivalries in the history of the NBA. Here are some eye-catching facts about this historic matchup:
Championship Dominance
The Celtics and Lakers have a combined total of 34 NBA championships (17 for the Celtics and 17 for the Lakers). This makes them the two most successful franchises in NBA history.
Unprecedented Finals Encounters
The Celtics and Lakers have met a record 12 times in the NBA Finals, more than any other two teams. This rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in basketball history.
Bill Russell’s Dominance
Bill Russell, one of the greatest players in NBA history, played a crucial role in the Celtics’ early dominance over the Lakers. He won 11 championships with the Celtics, and his battles with the Lakers in the Finals are legendary.
17-Game Winning Streak
The Celtics hold the record for the longest winning streak in NBA Finals games against a single opponent. From 1959 to 1966, the Celtics won 17 consecutive Finals games against the Lakers.
Jerry West’s Unprecedented Feat
Jerry West, the Lakers’ legendary player, is the only player from the losing team (1969) to be named NBA Finals MVP. His outstanding individual performance remains a remarkable part of the rivalry’s history.
Legends and Hall of Famers
The Celtics and Lakers rosters have been home to numerous basketball legends and Hall of Famers, including Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and many more.
The Celtics-Lakers rivalry is not just a competition on the court but a historical narrative that has shaped the landscape of the NBA. It has left an indelible mark on the league and continues to capture the imagination of basketball fans worldwide.