Every Lakers jersey tells a story, and the No. 35 worn by Joe Cooper is a fascinating chapter in the team's rich history. As the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate their 80th season—tracing back to their origins as the Detroit Gems in 1946—we're exploring every player who has ever donned the purple and gold, from the legends to the little-known role players.

Joe Cooper's journey to the Lakers is a classic underdog tale. Standing 6-foot-9, the big man was drafted in the fifth round by the New Jersey Nets in 1981. After appearing in just one game as a rookie, the Lakers signed him ahead of the 1982-83 season. His time in Los Angeles was brief but meaningful: in two games, Cooper logged 11 minutes, contributing two points, two rebounds, one steal, and one block.

Though his Lakers stint was short, Cooper's NBA journey continued with the Washington Bullets, San Diego Clippers, and Seattle SuperSonics before his career wrapped up in 1985. Over his time in the league, he averaged 4.5 points and four rebounds in 16.2 minutes per game. Beyond the NBA, Cooper also played for the Lancaster Lightning of the Continental Basketball Association and took his talents overseas, proving that a player's impact isn't always measured in minutes or points.

For Lakers fans and jersey collectors, No. 35 represents a piece of the team's fabric—a reminder that every player, no matter how brief their stay, contributes to the legacy of one of basketball's most iconic franchises.