Lakers Reflect on 80 Seasons of Players, Including Mel Gibson

Los Angeles, CA — As the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate their 80th season, they have had a total of 506 players suit up for the team since its founding in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League. Throughout the years, some players have been forgettable, some serviceable, and a select few have been legendary.

LeBron Wire is taking a closer look at each player who has worn the Lakers’ jerseys, from their purple and gold to the colors they donned during their early days in Minneapolis. The effort highlights the rich history and diverse roster of this iconic franchise.

Among the players discussed is Mel Gibson, not the famous actor, but a 6-foot-3 guard who played for the Lakers in the 1963 NBA Draft. This Gibson came from Western Carolina University and spent just one season with the Lakers, averaging 1.4 points, 0.4 rebounds, and 0.7 assists over 5.9 minutes per game, appearing in nine contests.

After his brief NBA career, this Mel Gibson turned to coaching, leading teams at Charleston Southern University and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. His story is just one of many that illustrate the unique and storied past of the Lakers franchise as they move forward into another season.