When you think of iconic basketball teams, the first one that usually comes to mind is the Los Angeles Lakers. This legendary franchise has achieved many impressive feats, both on and off the court. From winning 16 NBA championships to creating a legacy of greatness through their impressive roster of Hall of Famers. There is much to admire about this storied franchise.
Though the Lakers may be known for their on-court successes, their impact reaches far beyond that. The franchise represents a source of pride for the entire city of Los Angeles and serves as an example for all aspiring basketball players.
The Showtime Lakers: Magic, Kareem and 5 NBA Titles
The mid-1980s was a golden era for the Los Angeles Lakers. With talented players like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, the Lakers dominated the league and earned five NBA Championships in nine years. This span came to be known as “Showtime,” thanks to their high-flying offense that wowed crowds with flashy passes and no-look shots.
The “Showtime” Lakers were more than just a collection of amazing basketball players. They were also a force off the court. From their winning attitude to their colorful personalities, these stars lit up the city of Los Angeles. And helped make it a basketball destination for decades to come. The Lakers’ success also helped elevate the game and turn it into one of the most popular sports in America today.
The Return to Glory: Kobe and Pau Lead LA to Back-to-Back Titles
When Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol joined forces in the summer of 2007, the Los Angeles Lakers were immediately contenders. The two superstars quickly galvanized the team to new heights, claiming back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010.
Kobe and Pau formed a formidable on-court duo. Combining their talents to become one of the most dominant forces in NBA history. Bryant scored 81 points in his single-game career high against Toronto on January 22, 2006. The second-most points scored in an NBA game. And Gasol made three All-Star appearances with LA and averaged over 17 points per game during his tenure.
The two complemented each other perfectly, with Gasol’s ability to score from anywhere. On the court easing the responsibility of Kobe to carry the Lakers offense every night. Their chemistry eventually brought two championships back to LA—a major achievement that catapulted them into basketball history.
LeBron James Joins the Lakers: A New Chapter Begins
It’s hard to imagine the Lakers without the iconic purple and gold, but in 2018, something new and exciting happened. After an incredible sixteenth season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron James signed a four-year, $153.3 million deal to join the Los Angeles Lakers. His move signified a new chapter for one of the most storied franchises in sports. As they welcomed one of basketball’s all-time greatest players and began their quest for a seventeenth championship title.
This new chapter has been characterized by a number of incredible feats:
- In the 2018-19 season, James became the first Laker in franchise history to record a triple double against every team in the NBA.
- He was selected as an All-Star starter eight times during his two seasons with the Lakers – surpassing Magic Johnson’s seven selections.
- With his help, the Lakers ended their six-year playoff drought by clinching their spot in 2019-20 postseason play—the first time since 2014 that they had done so.
- In 2019-20, James became just the fourth player ever to be named MVP at age 35 or older after averaging 25 points per game during his seventeenth season—one of his best offensive campaigns ever!
The addition of LeBron James has certainly given fans reason to cheer and continued. To prove that The Legend of The Lakers lives on – many years beyond what was originally thought possible!
Why the Lakers Are the NBA’s Most Legendary Franchise
The Los Angeles Lakers are an iconic team who have been dominating the NBA for decades. It all started with their first championship win in 1949, and since then they have won a total of 16 championships—the most of any NBA franchise. So why are the Lakers so legendary?
Proven Success
The Los Angeles Lakers have been consistently successful for much of their history, making them one of the most successful basketball teams in the world and putting them at the top of the list when it comes to legendary franchises. They have made it to the playoffs many times and won numerous championships including 4 titles in 5 seasons from 1999-2004 and back to back titles from 2009-2010.
Star Players
Throughout their history, the Lakers have been able to bring together some of the biggest stars in basketball such as Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James. Having these players on board has cemented their place as one of the premier teams in all of basketball.
Loyal Fans
The Los Angeles Lakers also have some of the most passionate and dedicated fans in all of sports. With diehard fans showing up and supporting them through thick and thin. They also continue to draw thousands upon thousands of people each season regardless. If they are having a good year or not—making them one team you definitely want to watch if you’re a fan of basketball.
Conclusion
All in all, the Lakers have been a powerhouse in the NBA for decades. And have been an integral part of the sport’s history. Whether it’s the team’s 16 titles, their numerous Hall of Fame players. Or their ever-growing fan base, the Lakers are a force to be reckoned with. They have consistently put together amazing teams and were recently under the guidance of arguably the greatest player of all time, Kobe Bryant.
