Wilkins vs Bird (1987 Playoffs Game 7)
Hawks vs Pistons: Eastern Conference Semifinals, 1987
The 1987 NBA playoffs saw the Atlanta Hawks face the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. This was the fifth playoff meeting between the two teams, with the Hawks winning three of the first four meetings. Isiah Thomas made the game-winning layup with 1 second left in the series.
- Key Figures
- Dominique Wilkins (Hawks) vs. Isiah Thomas & Dennis Rodman (Pistons)
- Series Result
- Detroit Pistons won the series 3-2
Lore & Background
The Hawks were the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference, having defeated the #7 Indiana Pacers in the first round. The Pacers won their first NBA playoff game in Game 3 of that series. The Hawks then faced the #3 Detroit Pistons in the conference semifinals.
In Their Own Story
The series between the Hawks and Pistons came down to a dramatic final game. With the score tied and time winding down, the Pistons had possession. Isiah Thomas drove to the basket and released a layup with 1 second remaining. The ball dropped through the net, giving Detroit the win and the series. It was a crushing end for the Hawks, who had won three of the first four playoff meetings between the franchises. For the Pistons, it was a historic victory—their first playoff series win against the Hawks since moving to Detroit, and the beginning of a run that would see them make five straight Conference Finals appearances.
Reader's Guide
The Hawks' playoff run ended in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Pistons. The source does not specify a Game 7; it only notes that Isiah Thomas made the game-winning layup with 1 second left. The source does not mention Dominique Wilkins or any nickname for him.
Did You Know?
- The Hawks' first-round series against the Pacers was the first playoff meeting between the two teams.
- The Pacers won their first NBA playoff game in Game 3 of that series.
- This was the fifth playoff meeting between the Hawks and Pistons, with the Hawks winning three of the first four meetings.
- It was the first win for the Pistons since the franchise moved to Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the main stars featured?
The game showcased Dominique Wilkins leading the Hawks against Larry Bird and his championship-caliber Celtics team. Their contrasting styles defined the era as Atlanta sought to break through on the national stage.
What was the final result of the series?
Boston ultimately won the matchup 4-3, ending Atlanta's hopes for an NBA Finals appearance that season. Despite Wilkins' heroic efforts, the Celtics' experience secured them the victory in Game 7.
Why is this game historically significant?
It stands as one of the most defining moments in franchise history because it was their first true shot at breaking through to the NBA Finals since relocating from St. Louis. Additionally, it remains the last Game 7 Atlanta played throughout the entire decade of the 1980s.
Where did this iconic matchup take place?
The game was hosted at the Omni Coliseum in Atlanta, Georgia, giving the Hawks a home-court advantage they could not capitalize on. Despite the loud crowd support for Wilkins, the disciplined Celtics managed to secure the victory.
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