The Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in the National Basketball Association (NBA), with a history that spans over 70 years. From the team’s early days in Minneapolis to its current home in Los Angeles, the Lakers have always been one of the league’s most successful and beloved teams. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the Lakers and what makes them such an iconic franchise.
The Early Years
The Lakers franchise was founded in 1947 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The team was originally called the Minneapolis Lakers, and they quickly became one of the most dominant teams in the fledgling NBA. Led by legendary center George Mikan, the Lakers won five championships in their first six years of existence, cementing their status as a dynasty in the making.
The Move to Los Angeles
In 1960, the Lakers moved to Los Angeles, where they became the first professional sports team to call the city home. The move to LA marked a new era for the team, and they quickly became a fan favorite in their new home. In 1968, the Lakers drafted a young guard out of West Virginia University named Jerry West, who would go on to become one of the greatest players in NBA history. With West leading the way, the Lakers won their first championship in Los Angeles in 1972.
The Showtime Era
In the 1980s, the Lakers entered a new era of dominance known as the “Showtime” era. Led by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, the Lakers became the most exciting team in the NBA, with their fast-paced, high-scoring offense and flashy style of play. The Lakers won five championships in the 1980s, cementing their status as one of the greatest teams in NBA history.
The Kobe and Shaq Era
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Lakers once again became a dominant force in the NBA thanks to the dynamic duo of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Together, Bryant and O’Neal won three consecutive championships from 2000-2002, and the Lakers became the first team in over 30 years to win three straight NBA titles.
The Modern Lakers
Today, the Lakers remain one of the most popular and successful franchises in the NBA. Led by superstar LeBron James, the team is once again a championship contender, with a talented roster of players and a passionate fan base. Whether you’re a lifelong Lakers fan or just getting into basketball, there’s no denying the impact that this iconic franchise has had on the sport and the city of Los Angeles.