Which LA Lakers players have their jersey numbers retired? Looking at Hall of Famer Pau Gasol's jersey retirement
The LA Lakers have a storied franchise with legendary players gracing their organization since relocating to Los Angeles in the early 1960s. In light of Pau Gasol's jersey retirement, let's rank the top five Lakers who got their jerseys retired.
Getting one's jersey number retired by a sports organization is one of the highest honors an athlete can receive. It's a sign of respect, which future generations can look up to when it's their time to shine.
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#5, Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain is known as one of the best players to step foot on a basketball court. He won two championships, including one with the Lakers. Chamberlain also had four All-Star game appearances while playing in Los Angeles.
#4, Shaquille O'Neal
When the Lakers had Shaquille O'Neal on their roster, they were the most feared team in the league. Shaq's dominance became the foundation of the Lakers' dynasty in the early 2000s.
O'Neal became an icon that they decided to erect a statue of him outside the arena.
#3, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
As the former all-time scoring leader, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar already took over the NBA when he switched to the Lakers from the Milwaukee Bucks in 1975. He then spent 14 seasons in Los Angeles and solidified his place in the history books.
Together with Magic, they collected hardware for the franchise.
#2, Magic Johnson
Considered by many as the greatest point guard of all time, Magic Johnson remains an icon in the Lakers' history. Magic was the face of the Showtime Lakers, who bagged five NBA championships.
Due to his excellence on the court, his No. 32 was honored by the Lakers.
#1, Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant is considered by most fans to be the greatest Laker ever. It's only fitting, since he was with the franchise through their ups and downs, giving them five Larry O'Brien trophies.
Since he was impactful while wearing two numbers, the Lakers retired Nos. 8 and 24. Additionally, he vouched for the jersey retirement of his close friend and former teammate, Pau Gasol.
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