The Los Angeles Lakers will honor Jerry West this season by incorporating a uniform band that proudly displays his No. 44.
On Tuesday, the Lakers announced their heartfelt tribute to West, who passed away in June at the age of 86.
The striking purple band, located on the left shoulder of the Lakers’ uniforms, features the iconic No. 44 in gold at its center. West dedicated his entire 14-year NBA career to the Lakers, establishing himself as one of the league’s most prolific scorers and versatile guards of his time. His remarkable achievements include 14 All-Star selections and the endearing nickname “Mr. Clutch.”
Beyond his playing days, West transitioned into coaching and executive roles with the Lakers, where he was instrumental in assembling the legendary “Showtime” roster during the 1980s. Under his guidance, the Lakers captured five NBA championships and reached the NBA Finals nine times within a 12-year period.
West’s influence extended into the next championship era, as he played a key role in acquiring stars like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal before leaving the organization in 2000.
The Lakers have also scheduled a formal ceremony to honor West during their season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22. In the years leading up to his passing, West contributed to teams like the Grizzlies, Warriors, and Clippers.
Additionally, the Lakers confirmed their plans to retire Michael Cooper’s No. 21 jersey on January 13. Cooper, a pivotal shooting guard during the Lakers’ Showtime era, was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame earlier this year, highlighting the Lakers’ tradition of retiring jerseys only for Hall of Fame players.
