History of the Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers franchise has a long and storied history, predating the formation of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Hall of Famer George Mikan (#99) led the Lakers franchise to their first five NBA championships. He is described by the NBA's official website as the "first superstar" in league history.
The 1949–50 NBA champion Minneapolis Lakers
Jerry West (#44) led the team to nine NBA Finals appearances in the 1960s and 1970s. Nicknamed "Mr. Clutch", his silhouette is featured on the NBA's official logo.
Hall of Famer Gail Goodrich was a Laker for nine seasons in the 1960s and 1970s, and played in four NBA Finals.
National Basketball Association
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is a professional basketball league in North America composed of 30 teams. It is one of the major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada and is considered the premier professional basketball league in the world.
Bill Russell defending against Wilt Chamberlain in 1966.
Michael Jordan became the league's most popular player during the 1990s, while leading the Chicago Bulls to six championships.
Tim Duncan led the San Antonio Spurs to five NBA championships between 1999 and 2014.
Kobe Bryant defending LeBron James in a February 2016 game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers
