Lakers NBA titles have become more than just banners—they’re cultural landmarks in basketball history. The Los Angeles Lakers claimed their 17th championship in 2020, tying long-time rivals Boston, and cementing their legacy as one of the league’s most storied franchises. Here’s a full list of NBA champions.
Glory Days in Minneapolis and Early L.A. (First 5 Titles)
The Lakers kicked things off in Minneapolis with championships in 1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, and 1954. These early Lakers NBA titles, led by George Mikan, came within six seasons—establishing the foundation of a dynasty even before the move to Los Angeles.
When the franchise relocated in 1960, the Finals wins didn’t come as quickly—but the stage was set for future greatness.
Showtime Takes Over in the 1980s
The magic arrived with Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and coach Pat Riley. Between 1980 and 1988 the Lakers hauled in five more titles: 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988.
That era wasn’t just about wins; it was about transforming basketball into spectacle. Nobody played like Showtime—the fast-break, Hollywood-glamour style that became synonymous with Los Angeles. Explore the Showtime Lakers era. With these unique Lakers NBA titles, the basketball landscape was forever changed.
Three-Peat with Shaq & Kobe
The Lakers entered a new chapter at the turn of the millennium. With Phil Jackson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant, they ripped off a three-peat in 2000, 2001, and 2002, adding to their storied collection of Lakers NBA titles.
In 2009 and 2010 they added two more championships, this time powered by Kobe Bryant with Pau Gasol, while coach Jackson still orchestrated the show.
The 17th Ring: LeBron, Davis & the Bubble
A decade after Kobe’s last ring, LeBron James and Anthony Davis delivered title number 17 in the 2020 Finals. Played inside the pandemic bubble in Orlando, that championship tied L.A. and Boston for the most Lakers NBA titles in history.
There’s been debate about the “bubble crown” ever since. Daryl Morey and others questioned its legitimacy—no fans, no travel, neutral court—but that title still counts in the record books.
All 17 Championships at a Glance
| Year | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1949 | Washington Capitols | 4–2 |
| 1950 | Syracuse Nationals | 4–2 |
| 1952 | New York Knicks | 4–3 |
| 1953 | New York Knicks | 4–1 |
| 1954 | Syracuse Nationals | 4–3 |
| 1972 | New York Knicks | 4–1 |
| 1980 | Philadelphia 76ers | 4–2 |
| 1982 | Philadelphia 76ers | 4–2 |
| 1985 | Boston Celtics | 4–2 |
| 1987 | Boston Celtics | 4–2 |
| 1988 | Detroit Pistons | 4–3 |
| 2000 | Indiana Pacers | 4–2 |
| 2001 | Philadelphia 76ers | 4–1 |
| 2002 | New Jersey Nets | 4–0 |
| 2009 | Orlando Magic | 4–1 |
| 2010 | Boston Celtics | 4–3 |
| 2020 | Miami Heat | 4–2 |
They’ve adapted across time—from Mikan to Magic to Kobe to LeBron. Every generation has given them another crown.
Lakers NBA titles aren’t just trophies—they’re moments etched in basketball lore.
