If you've scrolled through NBA edits on TikTok lately, you've probably heard a familiar voice booming, "Lakers in 5." That voice belongs to sports commentator Shannon Sharpe, and his iconic catchphrase has taken on a life of its own across social media.
Sharpe, who co-hosts ESPN's First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith, has been dropping this line on national TV for years. But recently, he brought it back on air, sparking a fresh wave of memes that have spread far beyond the Los Angeles Lakers fanbase. So, what's the story behind this viral phrase? Let's break it down.
The Origin: A Spontaneous Rhyme
The first known time Sharpe said "Lakers in 5" was on August 31, 2020, during an episode of Undisputed with Skip Bayless. The two were discussing the Lakers' playoff series against the Portland Trail Blazers during the NBA's "bubble" season. Los Angeles had just closed out the series in five games, with LeBron James leading the charge.
When Bayless brought up Blazers center Hassan Whiteside, Sharpe wasn't having it. In a moment of pure improvisation, he started rhyming: "Whiteside, backside, sunny side... Lakers in 5!" followed by his signature belly laugh. The clip became an instant classic.
What Does "Lakers in 5" Mean?
In basketball terms, "Lakers in 5" is a bold prediction that the Lakers will win a seven-game playoff series in just five games. That's a dominant performance—second only to a four-game sweep. For Sharpe, it's become his go-to hype phrase whenever the Lakers are in the postseason.
From Catchphrase to Meme
Sharpe has kept the joke alive over the years, always leading with a trio of rhymes before delivering the punchline. One of the earliest memes came from Sharpe himself in 2021, featuring a photoshopped image of him as LeBron James with the caption: "Chris Paul, Cliff Paul, Jake Paul, Logan Paul… LAKERS IN 5!"
Today, the "Lakers in 5" meme is inseparable from a TikTok trend where creators remix Sharpe's voice into everything from NBA highlights to everyday situations. Whether you're a Lakers fan or not, there's no escaping the infectious energy of Shannon Sharpe's most famous catchphrase.