"Pat was a stickler for rules - no outsiders on the bus" - Pat Riley allowing KAJ's father on the team bus shocked the Lakers players
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Following their heartbreaking loss to the Boston Celtics in the 1984 Finals, coach Pat Riley was determined to implement certain rules to enhance his team’s chances of avenging their arch-rivals in the championship round the following year. This included prohibiting the Los Angeles Lakers players from getting friendly with the opponents and establishing a rule that only the Purple and Gold players could ride the team bus.
However, after a lackluster performance in Game 1 of the ‘85 Finals, Kareem Abdul Jabbar made a heartfelt plea to coach Riley to bend one of his rules. Surprisingly, Riley agreed, leaving Magic Johnson in disbelief.
Kareem let the pressure get to him in Game 1
There was a widespread belief that the Lakers would unleash their full firepower in the series opener of the ‘85 championship round, seeking redemption after letting the Larry O’Brien trophy slip from their fingers the previous year. However, the total opposite occurred. The Celtics delivered a humiliating 114-114 defeat to the Purple and Gold to take the 1-0 lead.
Taking the brunt of all criticism was ‘Cap,’ who only mustered 12 points and three rebounds in 22 minutes. Ahead of Game 2, the six-time MVP realized he needed a morale boost, leading him to ask coach Riley if his father could join them on the team bus. Riley agreed, leaving Magic stunned.
“It made an impression on all of us,” Magic said. “Pat was a stickler for rules – no outsiders on the bus – and it sent a powerful message when he made that exception. It was all about family.”
From Game 2 onwards, Kareem was a different animal
Having his wish granted, the 19-time All-Star decide to write his name all over the series starting from Game 2. He scored 30 points on 57.7% shooting from the field, grabbed 17 rebounds, and dished out eight assists, along with three blocks, leading the Lakers to a 109-102 victory over the Celtics at the Garden.
Kareem’s dominance was unmatched, leaving Riley convinced he had never seen the 7’2” center play any better.
“All things considered, it was one of the greatest games Kareem ever played,” Pat said
With the series returning to Boston for Game 6, the 19-time All-Star stepped up yet again, leading the Lakers with 29 points on 61.9% shooting from the field. His dominant performance helped the Purple and Gold make history as the first away team to lift a championship at the Boston Garden. Moreover, at 37 years old, Abdul Jabbar was rightfully crowned the Finals MVP.