Los Angeles Laker Girls

From Hoopedia

Entering their 28th season and long considered the premier dance squad of the NBA, the Los Angeles Laker Girls have truly earned a place in team history alongside the greats who have worn a Lakers uniform.

Impressed with the collegiate look and spirit that existed at USC and UCLA in the late 1970’s and seeking to bring that same atmosphere to Lakers home games, then new owner Dr. Jerry Buss brought together former songleaders from both universities to form the original Laker Girls in 1979.

After becoming known almost immediately for their unique and innovative dance routines, routines which actually helped spawn trends in music videos, it wasn’t long before the Laker Girls were the glamour dance group of the NBA and a household name nationwide. What had first begun as an experiment ultimately resulted in a trend-setting tradition.

Over the years, the Laker Girls have evolved into an even more professional dance squad while maintaining that same collegiate spirit that brought about their positive reputation. The 2006-07 squad consists of 21 talented, intelligent and energetic young ladies chosen from over 400 candidates. With each position considered a part-time job, each member of the Laker Girls is also involved in academic pursuits, theatrical/dance careers or non-entertainment careers.

Beyond dancing at Lakers home games, the Laker Girls have become ambassadors for the organization and NBA worldwide. While active in the local community with various personal appearances throughout the season at many non-profit and charitable functions, Laker Girls have also been chosen to represent the NBA globally on the continents of Asia, Europe and Australia. In addition, Laker Girls have also been afforded the opportunity to support and visit our military troops in places abroad such as Italy, Bosnia, Korea, Japan, Israel and Sarajevo.

Whether it is a community appearance, a clinic on foreign soil, a television show cameo or a game-night dance routine, the Laker Girls positive image is an integral part of the Los Angeles Lakers. While other NBA teams have followed suit and created dance or performance squads of their own, the Laker Girls still remain the standard by which all other teams are measured.

Notable Former Cheerleaders

• Paula Abdul