History and Guide to Los Angeles Lakers Championship Apparel and Merchandise

The History of Lakers Championship Apparel

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful franchises in NBA history. With 17 championships, the Lakers have cemented their status as one of basketball's premier organizations. Naturally, Lakers championship apparel has become incredibly popular amongst fans over the years.

The Lakers won their first championship in 1972, led by legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West. Fans celebrated by wearing hats, shirts and jackets commemorating the title. Chamberlain's larger-than-life personality and West's clutch shooting were major reasons for the Lakers' success.

In the 1980s, the Lakers emerged as a powerhouse led by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy. They won championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988. The Showtime Lakers dazzled fans with their uptempo, attractive playing style. Demand for apparel boomed during their dynastic run.

The Kobe and Shaq Era Ushers in a New Generation

In 1996, the Lakers traded for teen phenom Kobe Bryant and signed superstar center Shaquille O'Neal. The duo led the Lakers to three straight titles from 2000-2002, showcasing their unstoppable two-man game.

Bryant and O'Neal became international icons who brought their flair and larger than life personalities to the court each night. Their championship apparel was mass produced and gobbled up by Lakers fans globally.

Kobe Leads the Lakers to Back-to-Back Titles

After O'Neal was traded in 2004, Bryant took the reins and led the Lakers to championships in 2009 and 2010. He cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history during this stretch.

With his deadly offensive arsenal and competitive determination, Bryant connected with fans worldwide. His No. 24 jersey became iconic, appearing on various shirts, jackets and hats.

LeBron James Arrives and Brings a Championship Back to LA

In 2018, LeBron James signed with the Lakers in free agency. Alongside Anthony Davis, James led the Lakers to the 2020 championship in the Orlando bubble.

James' arrival brought incredible hype and intrigue to the franchise. His championship Lakers apparel featured unique slogans and designs honoring his one-of-a-kind game and career achievements.

Popular Lakers Championship Apparel and Merchandise

Here are some of the most popular types of Lakers championship apparel:

Championship Hats

Fitted hats featuring the championship year and logo are collectibles for Lakers fans. From vintage 80s styles to modern snapbacks, hats let fans display their Lakers pride.

Jerseys

Authentic jerseys from championship seasons are revered items for collectors. Jerseys featuring the legends who delivered each title are always in demand. Iconic designs like Kobe's No. 24 or Shaq's No. 34 are especially sought after.

T-Shirts and Jackets

Championship t-shirts and jackets showcase creative logos, slogans and images. They serve as wearable symbols of each title run. Unique jacket styles like varsity jackets and satin jackets are popular championship gear.

Collectible Lockers

For diehard collectors, locker room lockers featuring photos, jerseys and shoes from each title team are the ultimate piece of championship memorabilia.

Where to Buy Lakers Championship Merchandise

Lakers championship gear can be found at the following retailers:

Lakers Team Store

The official team store at the Staples Center in Los Angeles has the largest selection of championship Lakers apparel year-round.

Online at LakersStore.com

The official online team store is stocked with the newest championship shirts, hats, collectibles and more.

NBA Store

The online NBA Store carries a wide selection of Lakers championship gear alongside merchandise from all NBA teams.

Fanatics

As one of the largest online sports retailers, Fanatics offers an enormous selection of championship apparel and collectibles.

Local Sporting Goods Stores

Major retailers like Champs Sports and Dick's Sporting Goods typically carry select championship Lakers apparel in-store and online.

As the Lakers continue adding to their unmatched championship legacy, demand for gear and apparel commemorating each title run will endure. Championship merchandise serves as a tangible connection between fans and the franchise's success.

FAQs

What years did the Lakers win NBA championships?

The Lakers have won 17 NBA championships in the following years: 1972, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010, 2020.

Where can I buy authentic Lakers championship gear?

The best places to buy authentic Lakers championship merchandise are the Lakers team store, LakersStore.com, and the NBA Store website.

What is the most iconic piece of Lakers championship apparel?

The most iconic piece is probably Kobe Bryant’s #24 jersey from the 2009 and 2010 championship teams.

What is the oldest Lakers championship merch?

The oldest Lakers championship gear is from their first NBA title in 1972, led by Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain.

Where can I find vintage Lakers championship hats and jerseys?

Your best bet for finding vintage Lakers championship apparel is sites like eBay, Etsy, and specialty sports memorabilia stores.