Los Angeles Lakers
More Los Angeles Lakers pages
Los Angeles Lakers Explained: Traditions, Logo & History
Facts verified June 2026.
What was the Lakers' Showtime era?
"Showtime" refers to the Lakers of the 1980s, led by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy under coach Pat Riley.
Known for a fast-break, high-scoring, entertaining style, the Showtime Lakers won five NBA championships in the decade and turned Lakers games into Hollywood events at the Forum.
How many championships have the Lakers won?
The Lakers have won 17 NBA championships — five in Minneapolis and twelve in Los Angeles — tied with the Boston Celtics for the most in league history.
Their rivalry with the Celtics, whom they've met a record number of times in the Finals, is the defining rivalry of the NBA.
Were the Lakers originally from Minneapolis?
Yes.
The franchise began as the Minneapolis Lakers in 1947 — the name references Minnesota's "Land of 10,000 Lakes" — and won five early championships behind George Mikan before relocating to Los Angeles in 1960. The "Lakers" name stuck despite Los Angeles having few lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Lakers' Showtime era?
How many championships have the Lakers won?
Were the Lakers originally from Minneapolis?
More Los Angeles Lakers: Greatest Players · Schedule · Latest News