LOS ANGELES (AP) — Michael Cooper, a former Los Angeles Lakers guard known for his defensive prowess and team-first mentality, was honored by the franchise with a jersey retirement ceremony on Monday night. Cooper, who spent his entire career with the Lakers, saw his No. 21 jersey raised to the rafters at the team's downtown arena.
During the halftime ceremony, the Lakers paid tribute to Cooper's contributions to the team's success in the 1980s, a period that saw the franchise win five NBA championships. Cooper, a five-time selection for the All-Defensive first team and the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year in 1987, was recognized for his selfless play and dedication to winning.
