Magic Johnson recalls depression after 1984 Finals loss to Larry Bird

Magic Johnson reflected on his worst loss during a rivalry with Larry Bird in a 2012 interview. The 1984 NBA Finals, where Johnson's Lakers lost to Bird's Celtics in seven games, left him feeling depressed. He described a summer spent in sadness, analyzing every play and facing harsh media scrutiny. Johnson eventually bounced back, leading the Lakers to victories in subsequent Finals against the Celtics in 1985 and winning two more championships in 1987 and 1988. Their rivalry significantly impacted the NBA's popularity during the 1980s.

• 4:30 PMYahoo Sports — ‘I was depressed’ – Magic Johnson once revealed his worst loss against Larry Bird