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The LA Lakers' retired numbers are second only to the Boston Celtics in regards to the most numbers retired by any NBA franchise. Given that both teams are notably two of the most storied franchises across all of professional sports, however, the statistic isn't entirely surprising.
Let's jump right in and take a look at every number retired by the LA Lakers.
All 14 LA Lakers retired numbers
LA Lakers retired numbers: #6 - Bill Russell
One of the greatest athletes in American history, Bill Russell's #6 was retired leaguewide after his death. As an 11-time champ, five-time MVP, and a Civil Rights activist, Russell's impact extends far beyond the court.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #8, #24 - Kobe Bryant
A player who needs no introduction, Kobe Bryant had both of his jersey numbers retired by the LA Lakers in 2017. As a five-time NBA champ, and an 18-time All-Star, it's no secret why.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #13 - Wilt Chamberlain
Although Wilt Chamberlain spent just five seasons with the LA Lakers, his status as one of the greatest players to ever play the game can't be denied. That, combined with his 1971-72 championship win with the Lakers was enough to earn his jersey a spot in the rafters.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #16 - Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol just recently had his number retired by the LA Lakers, who honored the big man for his two NBA championships with the franchise alongside Kobe Bryant.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #22 - Elgin Baylor
Few men have spent as long with a franchise as Elgin Baylor did with the LA Lakers. Over 14 seasons with the team, Baylor racked up 11 All-Star appearances while earning NBA 35, 50th, and 75th-anniversary honors.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #25 - Gail Goodrich
During the LA Lakers' 1971-72 championship run, Gail Goodrich played an integral role with the team, averaging 25.9 points per game en route to his first and only NBA title. As a Hall of Famer, it feels only right that the LA Lakers retired his number.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #32 - Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson truly revolutionized the game of basketball. As a tall point guard who played multiple positions, Johnson could truly do it all. Despite having his career cut short due to his HIV diagnosis, Johnson wound up winning five titles in 13 years.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #33 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Arguably the greatest center to ever grace the floor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar spent 14 seasons with the LA Lakers. The Hall of Famer notably was named to the NBA’s 50th and 75th-anniversary teams, cementing his place as a true legend of the game.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #34 - Shaquille O’Neal
A player whose reputation precedes itself, Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominant big men in the league for nearly 20 years. While he only spent eight seasons in LA, his three titles and three Finals MVPs earned him a place in LA Lakers history.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #42 - James Worthy
During his 12 seasons with the LA Lakers, James Worthy was a three-time NBA champ, as well as a seven-time All-Star. The 1988 Finals MVP not only has his jersey in the rafters, but he also has a spot on the NBA’s 50th and 75th-anniversary teams.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #44 - Jerry West
If there ever was a player who was ahead of their time, it’s arguably Jerry West. While fans may know him as the NBA logo, West evolved the game with his ball handling and pull-up jumper. During his 14 seasons with the LA Lakers, West was an NBA champion and Finals MVP. After retirement, he went to work in the front office, further adding to his already impressive legacy.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #52 - Jamaal Wilkes
Jamaal Wilkes was a three-time champion with the LA Lakers, earning two All-Star appearances during that time as well. After being enshrined in the Hall of Fame, Wilkes had his jersey number retired by the LA Lakers in 2012.
LA Lakers retired numbers: #99 - George Mikan
Although George Mikan played at a time when the Lakers were a Minneapolis-based franchise, his 5 BAA/NBA championships and a stint as a GM & coach mark his place in history for LA. As the first player to score 10,000 points in a career, his place in the NBA’s record books can’t be denied
