LA Lakers Owners: A Complete History

The Los Angeles Lakers, a legendary name in the world of basketball, have a rich and storied history, marked by incredible players, unforgettable moments, and of course, the visionaries who owned and guided the franchise. From its humble beginnings in Minneapolis to its current reign in Los Angeles, the Lakers' journey has been shaped by a series of owners, each leaving their unique imprint on the team's legacy. Understanding the LA Lakers owner history is crucial to appreciating the franchise's evolution and success. Knowing who steered the ship, their strategies, and their dedication is essential to fully grasp the Lakers' dominance in the NBA. Guys, let's dive into the fascinating world of the Lakers' ownership and uncover the figures who shaped this iconic basketball team.

Minneapolis Lakers Era: Laying the Foundation

The Lakers' story begins not in the sunny landscapes of California, but in the frigid winters of Minneapolis. In 1947, Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen purchased the Detroit Gems of the National Basketball League (NBL) for $15,000, relocating the team to Minneapolis and renaming them the Lakers, in honor of Minnesota's nickname, the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." This marked the beginning of a dynasty, and Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen were at the helm. These guys were true pioneers, taking a gamble on a relatively new sport and setting the stage for future success. They weren't just owners; they were visionaries who saw the potential of basketball and the appeal of a team that represented the spirit of Minnesota. Under their ownership, the Minneapolis Lakers quickly became a force to be reckoned with, thanks in large part to the arrival of a young center named George Mikan. With Mikan leading the charge, the Lakers dominated the NBL and later the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which eventually merged with the NBL to form the NBA. The Lakers won five championships in six years, establishing themselves as the first dynasty in professional basketball history. Berger and Chalfen's leadership during this era was instrumental in building a winning culture and a loyal fan base. They understood the importance of investing in talent and creating a team that the city of Minneapolis could be proud of. Their decision to draft Mikan proved to be a stroke of genius, and his presence transformed the Lakers into a national phenomenon. While their tenure in Minneapolis was relatively short, Berger and Chalfen left an indelible mark on the franchise. They established a foundation of excellence that would continue to guide the Lakers for decades to come. Their legacy is one of vision, innovation, and a commitment to winning, principles that remain at the heart of the Lakers organization to this day. Without their initial investment and belief in the team, the Lakers might never have become the global icon they are today. These first owners set a high bar for those who would follow, and their contributions to the game of basketball cannot be overstated. They truly were the architects of the Lakers' dynasty.

Bob Short: A Controversial Chapter

In 1957, Bob Short purchased the Lakers, inheriting a team that was still competitive but past its prime. The Mikan era was over, and the Lakers were struggling to maintain their dominance. Short's tenure as owner was marked by financial difficulties and controversial decisions. He was a businessman first and foremost, and his focus was often on the bottom line rather than the team's performance on the court. One of Short's most significant and controversial decisions was to move the Lakers from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960. While the move ultimately proved to be beneficial for the franchise, it was a difficult decision at the time, as the Lakers had a loyal fan base in Minneapolis. Short argued that the move was necessary to ensure the team's financial survival, as the Minneapolis market was becoming increasingly saturated with professional sports teams. The move to Los Angeles was a gamble, but it paid off in the long run, as the Lakers quickly became one of the most popular teams in the city. However, Short's tenure was not without its challenges. The Lakers struggled to compete with the Boston Celtics, who were in the midst of their own dynasty. Short also faced criticism for his frugal spending habits, which some believed hampered the team's ability to attract top talent. Despite these challenges, Short did make some important contributions to the Lakers. He hired Fred Schaus as head coach, who helped to develop young players like Jerry West and Elgin Baylor. He also oversaw the construction of the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, which became the Lakers' home court for many years. Ultimately, Short's legacy as owner of the Lakers is a mixed one. He made some important decisions that helped to shape the franchise, but he also faced criticism for his financial decisions and his perceived lack of commitment to winning. His decision to move the team to Los Angeles was a defining moment in Lakers history, but it also marked the end of an era in Minneapolis. Short's ownership period was a transitional one, as the Lakers evolved from a regional power to a national brand.

Jack Kent Cooke: The Show Begins

In 1965, Jack Kent Cooke, a Canadian businessman, purchased the Lakers from Bob Short for $5 million, ushering in a new era of glamour and excitement. Cooke was a showman, and he transformed the Lakers into a spectacle both on and off the court. He understood the importance of entertainment and creating a memorable experience for fans. Cooke invested heavily in the team, bringing in star players like Wilt Chamberlain to join Jerry West and Elgin Baylor. He also built The Forum, a state-of-the-art arena that became the Lakers' home in 1967. The Forum was more than just a basketball arena; it was a palace of entertainment, complete with luxurious amenities and a vibrant atmosphere. Cooke's vision was to create a place where fans could come to see not only great basketball but also enjoy a complete entertainment experience. Under Cooke's ownership, the Lakers reached new heights of popularity and success. They won their first championship in Los Angeles in 1972, ending a long drought and cementing their status as one of the NBA's premier teams. The Lakers became known for their fast-paced, exciting style of play, and their games were must-see events for celebrities and fans alike. Cooke's influence extended beyond the basketball court. He was a master marketer, and he used his business acumen to promote the Lakers brand and expand their reach. He understood the power of television and worked to ensure that Lakers games were broadcast to a wide audience. He also created a number of innovative marketing campaigns that helped to generate excitement and build a loyal fan base. Cooke's impact on the Lakers was profound. He transformed the team into a global brand and created a culture of excellence that would continue to guide the franchise for decades to come. He was a visionary leader who understood the importance of entertainment and creating a memorable experience for fans. His legacy is one of innovation, glamour, and a commitment to winning. Cooke truly made the Lakers "Showtime." His contributions to the NBA and the world of sports are immeasurable.

Jerry Buss: The Golden Era

In 1979, Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers from Jack Kent Cooke for a staggering $67.5 million, marking the beginning of the team's most iconic and successful era. Buss, a real estate mogul with a passion for basketball and a keen eye for talent, transformed the Lakers into a global phenomenon. He understood the importance of entertainment and creating a winning culture, and he was willing to invest whatever it took to achieve those goals. Buss's first major decision was to draft Magic Johnson with the first overall pick in the 1979 NBA draft. Johnson, a charismatic point guard with incredible skills and a contagious enthusiasm, quickly became the face of the Lakers and one of the most popular players in the NBA. Alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Johnson led the Lakers to five championships in the 1980s, ushering in the "Showtime" era. The Lakers' games became must-see events, attracting celebrities and fans from all walks of life. Buss created a unique atmosphere at The Forum, with courtside seats filled with Hollywood stars and a pregame party scene that was unlike anything else in the NBA. He understood that basketball was more than just a game; it was entertainment, and he wanted to create an experience that fans would never forget. Buss's leadership extended beyond the basketball court. He was a shrewd businessman who understood the importance of marketing and branding. He built a strong management team and empowered them to make decisions that would benefit the team. He also fostered a culture of innovation, constantly looking for new ways to improve the fan experience and generate revenue. Under Buss's ownership, the Lakers became one of the most valuable and recognizable sports franchises in the world. They won 10 championships during his tenure, and their games were broadcast to a global audience. Buss's legacy as owner of the Lakers is one of unparalleled success and innovation. He transformed the team into a global brand and created a culture of excellence that continues to guide the franchise today. He was a visionary leader who understood the importance of entertainment and creating a winning culture. His contributions to the NBA and the world of sports are immeasurable. Jerry Buss truly was the architect of the Lakers' golden era, setting a new standard for ownership in professional sports. Under his guidance, the Lakers became synonymous with excellence, glamour, and unforgettable moments.

The Buss Family: Continuing the Legacy

Following Jerry Buss's passing in 2013, control of the Lakers passed to his children, with Jeanie Buss taking over as controlling owner and president. Jeanie Buss has been involved with the Lakers organization for many years, working in various roles and learning from her father. She has a deep understanding of the team's history and culture, and she is committed to continuing her father's legacy. Under Jeanie Buss's leadership, the Lakers have faced both challenges and successes. The team struggled in the years immediately following Jerry Buss's death, but Jeanie Buss remained committed to building a winning team. She made several key decisions, including hiring Magic Johnson as president of basketball operations and later Rob Pelinka as general manager. These moves helped to lay the foundation for the Lakers' resurgence. In 2020, the Lakers won their 17th championship, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The victory was a testament to Jeanie Buss's leadership and her commitment to building a team that could compete at the highest level. She has also worked to modernize the Lakers organization, embracing new technologies and strategies to improve the fan experience and enhance the team's performance. Jeanie Buss's ownership has been marked by a commitment to honoring her father's legacy while also forging her own path. She is a strong and capable leader who is dedicated to building a team that will continue to compete for championships for years to come. The Buss family's commitment to the Lakers is unwavering, and they remain dedicated to providing fans with the best possible basketball experience. Their legacy is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring that the Lakers remain a force to be reckoned with in the NBA for generations to come. The journey of the LA Lakers is a testament to the vision and dedication of its owners, each contributing to the team's rich history and enduring legacy.