The Los Angeles Lakers’ proud history, which consists of 17 championships and countless Hall of Famers, very much puts them in the discussion to be seen as the most iconic and storied franchise in the NBA.
And with the 2025-26 season just around the corner, the Lakers have released a new short film titled ‘Forever Iconic: Purple and Gold Always’ that emphasizes and captures such a message and sentiment very well.
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The short film sees the Bryant name continue to be a part of the Lakers organization with Natalia Bryant, the daughter of the late Lakers icon Kobe Bryant, serving as the Creative Director in her first time taking on such a role.
In a statement provided to PEOPLE, Natalia Bryant talks about what she hopes the film would mean to Lakers fans.
“Everyone has their own connection to the Lakers, I hope those who already love this team watch this project and remember what that pride feels like,” she said.
“And if you’re not a Lakers fan yet, I hope you watch this, and it makes you want to be.”
Kobe’s legacy is very much honored and remembered in the film, from a highlight of the Black Mamba drilling a game winning buzzer beater to current Lakers superstar Luka Doncic shouting out ‘Kobe’ as he shoots into a trash can.
Apr 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) acknowledges the crowd as he leaves the game against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center. Bryant was playing in the final game of his 20 year NBA career. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The video also shows clips of various Laker fans, from families to young and old, displaying their pride and support for the team, while 2020 Finals MVP LeBron James and Lakers legend Magic Johnson feature in the short movie as well.
Through the years, the Lakers have also been known for having strong ties to Hollywood with famous fans often seen sitting courtside at home games.
Apr 2, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers former player Shaquille O’Neal stands with Jack Nicholson during a ceremony retiring his jersey at half time of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
This A-List factor is represented in the short video with appearances from celebrities such as designer Jeff Hamilton, actress Brenda Song and LA Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, who very well could bring another World Series title to Los Angeles if the Dodgers continue to advance in the MLB playoffs.
Whether or not this year’s Lakers team will be good enough to win the franchise’s 18th title remains to be seen. Regardless, their new short film is bound to make their supporters around the world feel really good about being Lakers fans.
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