Join Us in Voting for the L.A. Sports Hall of Fame: NBA Edition

Sports Report Hall of Fame Launches Reader Voting

The excitement is building as the Sports Report introduces its Hall of Fame, inviting readers to participate in selecting former Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers players for induction. This initiative stems from the popular Dodgers Dugout Hall of Fame, where fans have previously voted for their favorite former Dodgers. Recent inductee Clayton Kershaw now joins an esteemed group of 17 Hall of Famers.

As part of the voting process, readers will encounter a new category each week. This week’s focus is on the Lakers and Clippers, where participants can vote for up to ten players, recognizing their achievements while part of these teams. It’s important to note that only contributions made during their tenures with the Lakers or Clippers will be considered; past performances elsewhere will not factor into the decision.

Votes will be tallied, and players who receive at least 75% approval will be elected to the Hall of Fame. Conversely, those receiving the fewest votes will be dropped from future ballots for a minimum of two years. Additionally, only retired players are eligible, and historical figures such as George Mikan, who spent the majority of his career with the Minneapolis Lakers, will not be included.

Voting for this week closes on May 13 at 11:59 p.m. Results will be announced shortly thereafter. Fans are encouraged to suggest additional players for consideration in future ballots.

The initial ballot for the Lakers/Clippers category features an impressive lineup:

• Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: A prolific contributor during his time with the Lakers.
• Elgin Baylor: A Lakers icon who later became the Clippers’ GM.
• Elton Brand: Key in leading the Clippers to their then-best record in 2006.
• Kobe Bryant: Recognized as one of the all-time greats.
• Jerry Buss: The visionary behind the “Showtime” era.
• Wilt Chamberlain: Had a remarkable although brief stint with the Lakers.
• Jack Kent Cooke: Former Lakers owner.
• Michael Cooper: Renowned for his defensive prowess.
• Derek Fisher: Integral to many significant Lakers moments.
• Pau Gasol: Key player following Shaquille O’Neal’s departure.
• Gail Goodrich: A Hall of Famer, often underrated.
• Blake Griffin: A standout during the Clippers’ "Lob City" era.
• Chick Hearn: Celebrated as one of the greatest basketball announcers.
• Phil Jackson: Coached the Lakers to five NBA championships.
• Magic Johnson: Often hailed as the greatest point guard.
• Stu Lantz: Longtime analyst for the Lakers.
• Ralph Lawler: Renowned Clippers announcer and creator of "Lawler’s Law."
• Shaquille O’Neal: A significant force for the Lakers.
• Chris Paul: Acknowledged for his talent, despite a rocky end to his Clippers tenure.
• Pat Riley: Guided the Lakers to four NBA titles.
• Byron Scott: A crucial member of multiple championship teams.
• Jerry West: Celebrated player, coach, and GM.
• Jamaal Wilkes: Known as "Silk" for his smooth gameplay.
• James Worthy: Often overshadowed, yet vital to the team’s success.

To cast your vote, follow the provided link. Participating fans may select up to ten players, with those achieving at least 75% of the votes earning a place in the Hall of Fame.