Lakers and TASCHEN Release Official 70-Year History Book

The Los Angeles Lakers, in partnership with TASCHEN, have released "Lakers: An Official History of the Purple & Gold," a comprehensive, 528-page authorized history chronicling the NBA franchise's seven-decade journey. Edited by Vikki Tobak, the book meticulously documents the team's evolution from its founding in Minneapolis to its 2020 championship victory. The narrative is structured across 10 chapters, presenting a chronological account of the Lakers' storied past. This extensive volume is enriched with rare and previously unpublished photographs, alongside original artwork and essays contributed by key figures who shaped the team's identity. These contributors include players, front office executives, and notable individuals associated with the team's presence in Hollywood.

The book features a foreword by NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, an introduction by Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss, and an afterword penned by iconic coach Phil Jackson. Jackson's concluding remarks bring the team's narrative full circle, beginning with its origins in Minneapolis before its relocation to Los Angeles in 1960. Significant championship seasons are given special emphasis, with each title run highlighted in distinct gold-themed sections. These sections detail the roster, head coach, and pivotal playoff performances for each championship year, establishing a consistent visual rhythm that spans the franchise's different eras. The book delves into the team's most celebrated periods, including the "Showtime" era of the fast-breaking 1980s teams led by Magic Johnson and Abdul-Jabbar under coach Pat Riley, which gained momentum after Dr. Jerry Buss acquired the team in 1979. It also covers the "three-peat" achieved by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant under Phil Jackson from 2000 to 2002, and the back-to-back championships won by Bryant and Pau Gasol in 2009 and 2010. The chronicle culminates with the 2020 championship squad, featuring LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Beyond the season-by-season historical accounts, "Lakers: An Official History of the Purple & Gold" dedicates special layouts to exploring the franchise's material culture. A four-page gatefold is dedicated to showcasing the team's 17 championship rings, offering a visual testament to their sustained success. Another extensive gatefold examines the evolution of the Lakers' iconic uniform history, tracing the design changes and cultural impact of their distinctive purple and gold attire. These visual elements are integrated with essays that explore how the Lakers transcended sports to become an integral part of the fabric of Hollywood and Los Angeles culture. The book's design aims to provide readers with an immersive experience, combining historical data with compelling visual storytelling and personal reflections from those who were instrumental in the Lakers' legacy. The collaboration between the Lakers organization and TASCHEN, a renowned publisher of art and design books, ensures a high-quality production that honors the team's rich heritage.