The Celtics and Lakers played three riveting NBA Finals in a four-year span during the mid-1980s that fueled the popularity of the league and set the stage for the tremendous growth and heightened profile the NBA has enjoyed since.

Boston's Larry Bird and LA's Magic Johnson headline rosters full of charisma and talent as their teams collide in the epic 1984 NBA Finals. The two had previously met in the 1979 NCAA Championship Game, and now welcomed a second title clash.

When the Celtics and Lakers meet again in the 1985 and 1987 NBA Finals, the teams' disdain and animosity for each other gradually turns to mutual respect -- led by superstars Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. The rivalry continues after Bird and Magic retire.