Every jersey tells a story. For the Los Angeles Lakers, that story stretches back to their Minneapolis roots and includes 506 players who have donned the purple and gold through the 2024-25 season. Some names are legendary, some are serviceable, and others are simply part of the rich tapestry of Lakers history. As the franchise celebrates its 80th season—founded in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League—we're exploring every player who has worn the iconic Lakers jersey.
Today, we're looking at No. 35: Larry Spriggs.
After a disappointing sweep by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1983 NBA Finals, the Lakers knew change was coming. They made a bold move, trading popular star point guard Norm Nixon for center Swen Nater and the rights to rookie Byron Scott. But just weeks before that blockbuster deal, they quietly signed a little-known forward named Larry Spriggs as a free agent.
Spriggs wasn't a household name. Drafted in the fourth round by the Houston Rockets in 1981 out of Howard University, he spent time with the Rochester Zeniths of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), where he was named Rookie of the Year. By the time the Lakers came calling, he had played just 13 regular-season NBA games.
But in Los Angeles, Spriggs found his stride. Over three seasons, he became a fringe rotation player, averaging 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in 13.6 minutes per game. More importantly, he was part of the 1985 championship team that finally conquered the Boston Celtics. At 6-foot-7, the forward provided solid depth during the Showtime era.
After leaving the NBA following the 1985-86 season, Spriggs spent the next decade playing overseas in Spain, Turkey, Italy, and France. His NBA career averages—5.2 points and 2.3 rebounds in 13 minutes per game—don't tell the full story of a player who found his moment in purple and gold.
For Lakers fans, No. 35 represents more than just stats. It's a reminder that every championship run is built on contributions from players like Larry Spriggs, whose hard work and versatility helped keep the dynasty rolling.