Los Angeles Lakers to Pay Tribute to Jerry West on Jerseys in 2024-25 NBA Season
Jerry West, a legendary figure in Los Angeles Lakers history, is being honored by the team this season with a special tribute. The Lakers will wear a black No. 44 band on their jerseys as a nod to West, who passed away at the age of 86 in June. This gesture pays homage to West’s remarkable contributions to the franchise during his tenure as a player, coach, and executive.
The decision to feature the No. 44 band on the Lakers’ jerseys is a season-long tribute that will extend through all 82 regular-season games and potentially into the postseason. This fitting tribute underscores West’s enduring legacy with the Lakers and recognizes his significant impact on the team over the years.
As a 14-time All-Star and 12-time All-NBA selection, Jerry West holds a revered place in NBA history. He ranks 25th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list and played a pivotal role in leading the Lakers to nine Finals appearances and one championship during his illustrious career. Notably, West remains the only player to have been named Finals MVP from the losing team, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership on the court.
Following his playing career, West transitioned to coaching and later assumed the role of general manager for the Lakers in 1982. During his tenure as an executive, he played a key role in constructing the iconic Showtime Lakers team that captured multiple championships in the 1980s. West’s strategic vision and astute decision-making were instrumental in shaping the Lakers’ success during that era.
One of West’s most significant moves as an executive was orchestrating the acquisition of Shaquille O’Neal and hiring Phil Jackson as head coach. Additionally, he engineered a groundbreaking trade with the Charlotte Hornets in 1996 that secured the draft rights to Kobe Bryant in exchange for Vlade Divac. This pivotal trade set the stage for the Lakers’ subsequent dominance in the early 2000s, culminating in three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002.
Jerry West’s enduring impact on the Los Angeles Lakers franchise is undeniable, and the No. 44 band tribute serves as a poignant reminder of his lasting legacy. From his stellar performances on the court to his strategic leadership as an executive, West’s influence continues to resonate within the Lakers organization and the broader NBA community. The tribute band on the jerseys symbolizes the profound respect and admiration that the Lakers and fans hold for the indelible mark that Jerry West has left on the team’s storied history.