History of the Lakers

The Minneapolis Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in the National Basketball Association. Founded in 1947, they were one of the original members of the NBA and have won 16 championships throughout their history. The team was originally based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota but relocated to Los Angeles prior to the 1960 season due to financial difficulties.

The early years of this franchise were dominated by Hall-of-Famer George Mikan who led them to five championships between 1949 and 1954 as part of a dynasty that also included players such as Vern Mikkelsen, Slater Martin, and Jim Pollard. After relocating from Minnesota, they would go on win another championship with Elgin Baylor leading them past Boston Celtics in the 1959-60 season before eventually winning eight more titles during the 1980s under head coach Pat Riley with star player Magic Johnson at the helm alongside Kareem Abdul Jabbar among others.

Today’s version is still considered a powerhouse within the league thanks largely due Kobe Bryant's legendary career which spanned two decades making him face the franchise from 1996 until his retirement in 2016 after helping lead the Lakers back into contention once again including three straight trips finals 2006 - 2008 culminating fifth title for organization 2009–10 season. While the future is uncertain now that the former great is no longer playing, the legacy he left behind will live forever and continue to inspire new generations of basketball fans around the world.