Lakers Owner Before Jerry Buss: A Detailed History

Before the iconic Jerry Buss transformed the Los Angeles Lakers into a global powerhouse synonymous with Hollywood glamour and championships, the team had a rich and evolving ownership history. Understanding who steered the ship before Buss took over in 1979 provides crucial context to the Lakers' journey. This article delves into the pre-Buss era, exploring the key figures who laid the foundation for one of the most successful franchises in NBA history.

Early Years and Ben Berger & Morris Chalfen Era

The Lakers' story begins not in Los Angeles, but in Minneapolis. In 1947, Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen purchased the Detroit Gems of the National Basketball League (NBL) for $15,000. They relocated the team to Minneapolis, Minnesota, christening them the Minneapolis Lakers, a nod to Minnesota's nickname, "Land of 10,000 Lakes." Berger and Chalfen's ownership marked the inception of a basketball dynasty. Their vision and investment proved immediately fruitful.

Under their stewardship, the Lakers quickly established themselves as a dominant force. The team was led by the legendary George Mikan, a towering center who revolutionized the game. The Minneapolis Lakers captured five NBL and NBA championships in six years (1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, and 1954). These early championships cemented the Lakers' reputation for excellence. Berger and Chalfen's ability to recognize and nurture talent, particularly Mikan, was instrumental in this success. Their leadership established a winning culture that would become synonymous with the Lakers franchise.

However, maintaining a dynasty is never easy. Despite the on-court success, the Lakers faced financial challenges in Minneapolis. The smaller market size and changing economic landscape made it increasingly difficult to sustain the team's financial viability. Berger and Chalfen recognized the need for a change to ensure the Lakers' long-term survival. This ultimately led to a monumental decision that would forever alter the course of the franchise.

Bob Short Takes the Reins

In 1957, amidst growing financial strain, Berger and Chalfen sold the Lakers to Bob Short. Short, a Minneapolis businessman, inherited a team steeped in championship pedigree but grappling with economic realities. His arrival signaled a new chapter, one fraught with both challenges and opportunities. Short's primary objective was to stabilize the Lakers' financial situation while preserving their competitive edge.

Short's tenure was marked by a pivotal decision: the relocation of the Lakers to Los Angeles in 1960. This move was driven by the promise of a larger, more lucrative market. Los Angeles, with its burgeoning population and entertainment industry, presented a golden opportunity to revitalize the franchise's financial fortunes. The move was a gamble, but Short believed it was necessary for the Lakers' survival and future prosperity. The relocation was not without its challenges, though. Short had to navigate the complexities of building a fanbase in a new city while maintaining the team's on-court performance. He understood that success in Los Angeles required more than just winning games; it demanded capturing the hearts and minds of the city's vibrant and diverse population.

Despite the challenges, Short's decision proved to be a stroke of genius. The Lakers quickly became a sensation in Los Angeles, attracting a star-studded fanbase and establishing themselves as a cornerstone of the city's sporting landscape. The move to Los Angeles laid the groundwork for the Lakers' future dominance, setting the stage for the arrival of Jerry Buss and the "Showtime" era. Short's vision and courage in relocating the team were instrumental in shaping the Lakers into the global phenomenon they are today.

Jack Kent Cooke Era: Building a Dynasty in LA

In 1965, Jack Kent Cooke, a Canadian businessman with a keen eye for sports and entertainment, purchased the Los Angeles Lakers from Bob Short. Cooke's ownership ushered in an era of significant investment and ambition. He was determined to transform the Lakers into not just a basketball team, but a premier entertainment brand. Cooke's vision extended beyond the basketball court; he sought to create an immersive experience for fans that combined sports, glamour, and spectacle. His arrival marked a turning point in the Lakers' history, setting the stage for their eventual dominance in the NBA.

Cooke's first major move was the construction of 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 symbol of Cooke's ambition and commitment to providing fans with the best possible experience. The arena quickly became a hub of entertainment, hosting not only Lakers games but also concerts, boxing matches, and other high-profile events. The Forum elevated the Lakers' profile and solidified their status as a major player in the Los Angeles entertainment scene.

Under Cooke's ownership, the Lakers assembled a star-studded roster featuring legends like Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, and Wilt Chamberlain. Despite their individual brilliance, the Lakers struggled to overcome their arch-rivals, the Boston Celtics, in the NBA Finals. These frustrating defeats fueled Cooke's determination to build a championship team. In 1972, his vision finally came to fruition as the Lakers, led by West, Chamberlain, and Gail Goodrich, captured their first NBA championship in Los Angeles. This victory was a testament to Cooke's commitment to excellence and his unwavering belief in his team. Cooke's era also saw the Lakers set an NBA record with a 33-game winning streak, a testament to his savvy management.

The Transition to Jerry Buss

In 1979, Jack Kent Cooke made the momentous decision to sell the Lakers, along with The Forum and other properties, to Jerry Buss. This transaction marked the end of one era and the beginning of another, one that would forever change the landscape of the NBA. Cooke's contributions to the Lakers were immense, but he recognized that the time had come to pass the torch to a new visionary leader. Buss, a real estate mogul with a passion for basketball and entertainment, was the perfect successor.

Cooke's legacy is undeniable. He transformed the Lakers into a premier entertainment brand, built a state-of-the-art arena, and assembled a championship-winning team. He laid the foundation for the Lakers' future success, setting the stage for the "Showtime" era under Jerry Buss. Cooke's vision and ambition were instrumental in shaping the Lakers into the global phenomenon they are today. His impact on the franchise and the city of Los Angeles will be forever remembered.

Jerry Buss and the Showtime Era

Jerry Buss's acquisition of the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979 ushered in the iconic "Showtime" era, a period defined by its electrifying style, celebrity-filled courtside seats, and, most importantly, unparalleled success. Buss, a charismatic and innovative owner, understood the power of entertainment and sought to blend it seamlessly with basketball. He transformed Lakers games into spectacles, creating an atmosphere that was as captivating off the court as it was on. This approach revolutionized the NBA and set a new standard for sports entertainment.

Buss's vision extended beyond just winning games. He wanted to create an experience that would appeal to a wide audience, attracting fans from all walks of life. He understood that basketball was not just a sport, but a form of entertainment, and he sought to capitalize on that by creating a unique and unforgettable experience for fans. From the Laker Girls to the celebrity sightings, Buss transformed the game-day experience into a show of its own.

Under Buss's ownership, the Lakers drafted Magic Johnson, a transcendent talent who, along with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, led the team to five NBA championships in the 1980s. The "Showtime" Lakers were known for their fast-paced, exciting style of play, which perfectly complemented Buss's vision of entertainment. The team's success on the court translated into immense popularity, making the Lakers a global brand and solidifying their place as one of the most iconic franchises in sports history.

Conclusion

The journey of the Los Angeles Lakers from Minneapolis to their current status as a global powerhouse is a testament to the vision and dedication of several key owners. From Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen's early championships to Bob Short's pivotal relocation to Los Angeles, and Jack Kent Cooke's investment in The Forum and a championship roster, each owner played a crucial role in shaping the Lakers' identity. While Jerry Buss is rightfully celebrated for the "Showtime" era, it is important to acknowledge the contributions of those who came before him. They laid the foundation upon which Buss built his empire, creating a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire the Lakers organization today. Their combined efforts transformed the Lakers into a team that is synonymous with winning, glamour, and innovation. Without their contributions, the Lakers would not be the global phenomenon they are today. The story of the Lakers is a story of evolution, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to excellence.