Legacy: The True Story of the L.A. Lakers -- “Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers” captures the remarkable rise and unprecedented success of one of the most dominant and iconic franchises in professional sports. Featuring exclusive access to the Buss Family and probing, revealing interviews with players, coaches, and front office execs, this 10-part documentary series chronicles this extraordinary story from the inside – told only by the people who lived it. When charismatic real estate tycoon Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers in a wildly risky and complex business deal, nobody could’ve predicted just how much success was to come. Kicking off the “Showtime” era in 1979, the notorious L.A.-playboy pioneered the business of basketball. He raised the price of floor seats, introduced dancers and a live band, opened an exclusive private club inside the arena, and cultivated famous fans in Hollywood. Over the last 40 years, the team captured 11 titles and retired the jerseys of some of the NBA’s most legendary players. Today, Dr. Buss’s empire is now worth more than $5 billion. But all of that success did not come easy. Along with notorious feuds, career-ending illnesses, and a bevy of insurmountable on-court obstacles, the Lakers have also weathered intense drama off the court – within Dr. Buss’s own family. Running the franchise as a “mom and pop” operation, Dr. Buss gave his children front office jobs with the understanding they would, someday, inherit his kingdom. But sibling rivalry, interpersonal conflict, and corporate unrest threatened to destroy everything Dr. Buss worked so hard to build. Ultimately, “Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers” is about family, business, and power –and how all three must be harnessed to achieve greatness. (Courtesy of Hulu)
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic and successful franchises in NBA history. With a legacy spanning decades, the Lakers have been home to some of the greatest basketball players of all time. Their journey from Minneapolis to Los Angeles, and from underdogs to perennial champions, is a story of determination, star power, and reinvention.
The Lakers’ story began in 1947 when the franchise was founded in Minneapolis. The name “Lakers” was inspired by Minnesota’s nickname, “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Led by George Mikan, the first dominant big man in NBA history, the Lakers won five championships between 1949 and 1954. Mikan’s dominance helped shape the early NBA, but after his retirement, the team struggled to maintain its success.
In 1960, the Lakers relocated to Los Angeles, becoming the city’s first major professional basketball team. The move set the stage for the franchise to become one of the most popular in sports history. During the 1960s, the Lakers were led by Elgin Baylor and Jerry West. Though they reached multiple NBA Finals, they were repeatedly thwarted by the Boston Celtics, who became their biggest rivals. West, despite being one of the best players of his era, faced numerous Finals losses before finally winning a championship in 1972.
The arrival of Magic Johnson in 1979, alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, ushered in the legendary “Showtime” era. Under head coach Pat Riley, the Lakers played a fast-paced, entertaining brand of basketball that captivated fans. With key players like James Worthy and Byron Scott, the Lakers dominated the 1980s, winning five championships (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988). Their rivalry with the Celtics, particularly against Larry Bird, was a defining aspect of the decade. Magic Johnson became a global superstar, and the Lakers became the NBA’s glamour franchise.
After a brief downturn in the 1990s, the Lakers rebuilt with two key acquisitions: Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. In 1999, they hired Phil Jackson as head coach, and his leadership helped the team win three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. Shaq’s dominance in the paint and Kobe’s relentless scoring made them nearly unstoppable. However, internal conflicts led to O’Neal’s departure in 2004, leaving Kobe to lead the team alone.
Kobe Bryant cemented his legacy with back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010, alongside Pau Gasol. His work ethic and killer instinct made him one of the greatest players in NBA history. Tragically, Kobe’s life was cut short in 2020, but his impact on the Lakers and basketball remains eternal.
In 2018, the Lakers signed LeBron James, marking a new chapter. In 2020, they won their 17th championship, tying them with the Celtics for the most in NBA history. With new stars like Anthony Davis, the Lakers continue to strive for greatness.
The Lakers’ story is one of resilience, reinvention, and greatness—a true dynasty in the world of sports.
