The Lakers’ Historic Streak: A 33-Game March Through NBA History
The longest winning streak in NBA history to date came to an end on 9 January 1972. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, had a 33-game winning run snapped by the Milwaukee Bucks, thanks to a 120-104 victory that featured a standout performance from superstar Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
The Streak’s Impressive Rise
The Lakers’ remarkable streak began on November 5, 1971, when they outclassed the Philadelphia 76ers by a staggering 40 points. They continued their dominance through the following months, even posting an impressive 154-point win against the same Philadelphia team.
Crowning Achievement: Championship Victory
The Lakers’ outstanding season culminated in a triumphant playoff final against the New York Knicks, securing their sixth NBA title with a 4-1 victory. This victory set the stage for another 11 championships to follow, with the most recent in the 2019/20 season, where they bested the Miami Heat 4-2.
“We knew we had something special. The locker room energy, the camaraderie—it was all there for us.” – Jerry West
Legacy of Unmatched Excellence
The Lakers’ 33-game winning streak may have ended decades ago, but its legacy lives on. It remains an unparalleled testament to the team’s historic dominance and sets a benchmark for future NBA squads to strive towards.
FAQ
- What was the longest winning streak in NBA history?
- As of now, the longest winning streak in the NBA is the Los Angeles Lakers’ 33-game run from 1971 to 1972.
- Which team ended the Lakers’ 33-game winning streak?
- The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, stopped the Lakers’ streak with a 120-104 victory on January 9, 1972.
Did you know?
During this 33-game winning streak, the Lakers’ average margin of victory was a whopping 11.8 points per game.
Pro Tip
For the best overall view of the action, consider catching a game at the iconic Staples Center, home to the Lakers since 1999.
Keep the Streak Alive!
Want to see more incredible moments from the Lakers’ history? Explore more articles on Lakers’ history and relive the magic!
