Lakers to Retire Michael Cooper's No. 21 Jersey

The Los Angeles Lakers will retire Michael Cooper's No. 21 jersey on January 13, 2025, during a home game against the San Antonio Spurs. Cooper, who was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this year, played a crucial role in the Lakers' 'Showtime' era, helping the team win five NBA championships. Known for his defensive prowess, Cooper earned eight NBA All-Defensive Team selections and was named the 1987 Defensive Player of the Year. Despite never being an All-Star, his contributions alongside legends like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were indispensable. This honor cements Cooper's legacy as one of the Lakers' greats, joining other illustrious names in the franchise's history.