Los Angeles Lakers History

Los Angeles Lakers history began in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers. After moving to Los Angeles in 1960, the team defined Los Angeles Lakers basketball. With stars like Magic Johnson and LeBron James, explore the championships and iconic moments that shape Los Angeles Lakers history as an NBA powerhouse.

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Established
1947

City
Minneapolis – Los Angeles

League History
1949 – Present / National Basketball Association
1948 – 1949 / Basketball Association of America
1947 – 1948 / National Basketball League

Team History
1960 – Present / Los Angeles Lakers
1947 – 1948, 1948 – 1960 / Minneapolis Lakers

Nickname
Lakers – The Los Angeles Lakers are among the most iconic teams in the NBA, and their nickname is just as legendary. You can also read the article "The Greatest NBA Players" we have discussed some popular players of NBA along with their contributions. But where did it come from? Let's examine how the Lakers got their name and what it means to sports fans worldwide.

The team was founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1947 as The Minneapolis Lakers. As you may have guessed, this name was chosen due to Minnesota’s famous 10 000 lakes! This nickname paid homage to its home state and local landscape, which still resonates with fans today when they cheer on “the lake show” at Staples Center.

Los Angeles Lakers Origin

When owner Bob Short moved his team from Minnesota to Los Angeles before the season 1960-61, he decided not to change their original moniker but add "Los Angeles" before it, thus creating The Los Angeles Lakers we know today! And so began an era of dominance for one of basketball's greatest franchises: winning 16 championships since moving westward over 60 years ago (including five straight titles between 2000-2010).

Sports fanatics everywhere recognize that being a Laker fan isn't just about watching great basketball. A deep sense of pride is also attached to being part of such an esteemed organization whose history dates back nearly 75 years ago when they were first established as The Minneapolis Lakes. It doesn't matter if you're cheering them on courtside or following along online; donning purple & gold is always a surefire sign that you've joined one very special family!

Championship
NBA Championships 12
2020, 2010, 2009, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1988, 1987, 1985, 1982, 1980, 1972, 1954, 1953, 1952, 1950, 1949

Arena
2000 – Present / Staples Arena
1967 – 1999 / The “Fabulous” Forum
1960 – 1967 / Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena

*Minneapolis*
1947 – 1960 / Minneapolis Auditorium

Owner
2025 - Present / Mark Walter
2013 – 2025 / Buss Family Trust
1979 – 2013 / Jerry Buss
1965 – 1979 / Jack Kent Cooke
1957 – 1965 / Bob Short
1948 – 1957 / Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen

Los Angeles Lakers history started in 1947 when the franchise, then known as the Minneapolis Lakers, debuted in the National Basketball League before joining the NBA in 1949. Initially based in Minneapolis, the team dominated with George Mikan, widely considered the NBA’s first superstar. Mikan led the Lakers to five championships (1949–1954), establishing early Los Angeles Lakers history as a dynasty. Moreover, the team’s success in Minneapolis laid a strong foundation for Los Angeles Lakers basketball before their 1960 relocation to Los Angeles.

After moving to Los Angeles, Los Angeles Lakers history entered a new chapter. The 1960s saw stars like Elgin Baylor and Jerry West shine, though the team faced repeated Finals losses to the Boston Celtics. Nevertheless, the 1971–72 season brought a breakthrough, with Wilt Chamberlain and West securing a championship and a record-breaking 33-game win streak. This era solidified Los Angeles Lakers basketball as a thrilling spectacle. Additionally, the 1970s introduced Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, whose arrival set the stage for future triumphs in Los Angeles Lakers history.

The 1980s, known as the “Showtime” era, marked a pinnacle in Los Angeles Lakers history. Led by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, the Lakers won five championships (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988). Their fast-paced, electrifying style defined Los Angeles Lakers basketball, captivating fans worldwide. Furthermore, the 1990s and early 2000s saw Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant form a dominant duo, securing three consecutive titles (2000–2002). For a deeper dive into Los Angeles Lakers history, visit their Wikipedia page.

Following Kobe Bryant’s 2016 retirement, Los Angeles Lakers history faced challenges. However, LeBron James’ arrival in 2018 sparked a resurgence. Paired with Anthony Davis, James led the Lakers to their 17th championship in 2020, defeating the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals. Consequently, this victory tied the Lakers with the Boston Celtics for the most NBA titles, reinforcing the enduring legacy of Los Angeles Lakers basketball.

Los Angeles Lakers Achievements

The Los Angeles Lakers’ achievements include 17 NBA championships (1949, 1950, 1952–1954, 1972, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000–2002, 2009, 2010, 2020) and 32 Conference titles. Additionally, they’ve secured 24 division titles, showcasing their dominance in Los Angeles Lakers history. Legends like Mikan, West, Magic, Shaq, Kobe, and LeBron have defined Los Angeles Lakers basketball.

Currently, Los Angeles Lakers history continues to evolve under LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With a passionate fanbase and a commitment to excellence, the team remains a contender. Indeed, Los Angeles Lakers basketball embodies a “Purple & Gold” legacy, with Los Angeles Lakers history poised for more iconic moments as the franchise chases additional championships.

Los Angeles Lakers Origin

Los Angeles Lakers History

Los Angeles Lakers Achievements

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