Lakers Owners: A Complete History

Hey basketball fans! Ever wondered who's been calling the shots for the legendary Los Angeles Lakers? From their humble beginnings in Minneapolis to their reign as a global powerhouse, the Lakers have had a fascinating journey shaped by a handful of influential owners. Let's dive into the complete history of Lakers owners and see how they've impacted the team's success. Understanding the Lakers owners history is key to understanding the franchise's evolution.

Minneapolis Lakers (1947-1960)

The Minneapolis Lakers era laid the foundation for the franchise's future glory. These early owners played a crucial role in establishing the team's winning culture and attracting top talent. Here’s a look at the individuals who steered the ship during those formative years:

Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen (1947-1957)

In 1947, Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen purchased the Detroit Gems of the National Basketball League (NBL) for $15,000 and moved the team to Minneapolis, renaming them the Lakers. These guys were the OG owners who took a chance on a basketball team in Minnesota. Berger and Chalfen's leadership saw the Lakers dominate the NBL and then the early years of the NBA after the merger in 1949. Under their ownership, the Lakers, led by the great George Mikan, clinched five NBA championships in six years (1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, and 1954), establishing a dynasty right from the get-go. Their keen eye for talent and commitment to winning set a precedent for future Lakers owners. They understood the importance of building a strong team both on and off the court. Berger, in particular, was known for his hands-on approach, often attending games and interacting with players. Chalfen, on the other hand, focused on the business side, ensuring the team's financial stability. Together, they made a formidable partnership that propelled the Lakers to unprecedented success in their early years. Their vision and dedication laid the groundwork for the Lakers' future as one of the most iconic franchises in basketball history. They fostered a culture of excellence that would continue to define the team for decades to come. The championships won under their watch are a testament to their leadership and strategic decision-making. They created a winning formula that became synonymous with the Lakers brand. This era of dominance cemented the Lakers' place in basketball history and set the stage for future generations of success. The legacy of Berger and Chalfen remains an integral part of the Lakers' story, a reminder of the team's humble beginnings and its unwavering pursuit of excellence. Their contributions are often overlooked, but their impact on the franchise is undeniable. They deserve recognition for their pivotal role in shaping the Lakers into the basketball powerhouse we know today. Their commitment to building a winning team and fostering a strong organizational culture set a standard that subsequent owners would strive to emulate. The early success of the Lakers under Berger and Chalfen established a tradition of winning that became deeply ingrained in the team's identity.

Bob Short (1957-1960)

Bob Short bought the Lakers in 1957. His tenure, while shorter, was marked by financial struggles. Short faced the challenge of maintaining the team's competitiveness while dealing with declining attendance and revenue. Despite these difficulties, he managed to keep the team afloat for a few more years. However, the financial pressures ultimately led to his decision to move the team to Los Angeles in 1960. Short's decision to relocate the Lakers was a pivotal moment in the franchise's history. While it was driven by financial necessity, it also opened up new opportunities for the team to grow and thrive in a larger market. Los Angeles provided a more fertile ground for the Lakers to expand their fan base and increase their revenue. Although his time as owner was challenging, Short's contribution to the Lakers cannot be overlooked. He made the difficult decision to move the team, which ultimately proved to be a turning point in the franchise's history. His willingness to take risks and adapt to changing circumstances helped to ensure the Lakers' survival and paved the way for their future success in Los Angeles. Short's legacy is complex, but his impact on the Lakers is undeniable. He steered the team through a period of financial uncertainty and made the bold move to relocate, setting the stage for the Lakers' rise to prominence in the entertainment capital of the world. Without his leadership, the Lakers might not have become the global phenomenon they are today. His vision and determination played a crucial role in shaping the team's destiny. Short's decision to move the Lakers was a calculated gamble that ultimately paid off, transforming the franchise into a cultural icon and a perennial contender for championships. His legacy as the owner who brought the Lakers to Los Angeles is forever etched in the team's history.

Los Angeles Lakers (1960-Present)

The move to Los Angeles marked a new chapter in Lakers history. With the change of scenery came new owners who brought their own vision and resources to the team. This era saw the Lakers become a global brand and a symbol of success.

Bob Short (1960-1965)

Yep, good ol' Bob Short continued as the owner after the move to Los Angeles. While he successfully transplanted the team, financial woes continued to plague the Lakers. Despite having stars like Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, Short couldn't quite turn the team's financial fortunes around. He eventually sold the team in 1965. Short's continued struggles in Los Angeles highlight the challenges of managing a sports franchise in a competitive market. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to overcome the financial obstacles that hindered the team's growth. His tenure in Los Angeles was marked by both promise and disappointment, as the Lakers struggled to achieve both on-court success and financial stability. Short's legacy is one of perseverance in the face of adversity. He made the bold decision to move the team to Los Angeles, but he was ultimately unable to capitalize on the opportunities that the new market presented. His time as owner was a transitional period for the Lakers, as they sought to establish themselves in their new home and build a sustainable foundation for future success. Short's contributions to the Lakers are often overshadowed by the team's later achievements, but his role in bringing the franchise to Los Angeles should not be forgotten. He laid the groundwork for the Lakers' rise to prominence, even though he was unable to fully realize his vision for the team. His efforts to keep the team afloat during a challenging period were crucial to the Lakers' survival and paved the way for their eventual success. Short's legacy is a reminder of the complex and often unpredictable nature of sports ownership.

Jack Kent Cooke (1965-1979)

Enter Jack Kent Cooke, a Canadian businessman who bought the Lakers in 1965. Cooke was a flamboyant and ambitious owner who invested heavily in the team and its facilities. He built the Forum, the Lakers' iconic arena, and brought in stars like Wilt Chamberlain. Under Cooke's ownership, the Lakers finally broke through and won their first NBA championship in Los Angeles in 1972, ending years of frustration. Cooke's impact on the Lakers was transformative. He brought a sense of professionalism and showmanship to the team, elevating their profile both on and off the court. His investment in the Forum created a state-of-the-art venue that became synonymous with the Lakers brand. Cooke's vision and leadership helped to establish the Lakers as a cultural icon in Los Angeles. He understood the importance of creating a memorable fan experience, and he spared no expense in making the Forum a premier entertainment destination. Cooke's legacy is one of ambition and innovation. He transformed the Lakers into a global brand and set a new standard for sports ownership. His contributions to the team and the city of Los Angeles are immeasurable. Cooke's impact on the Lakers extended beyond the basketball court. He was a visionary leader who understood the power of sports to bring people together and create a sense of community. His legacy is a reminder of the transformative potential of sports ownership. Cooke's commitment to excellence and his passion for the Lakers helped to shape the team's identity and culture. His influence is still felt today, as the Lakers continue to strive for the same level of success and innovation that he championed.

Jerry Buss (1979-2013)

Ah, Dr. Jerry Buss – the man who defined the Lakers for a generation. Buss bought the team in 1979 and ushered in the