Watch the full interview now as a VladTV Youtube Member: Click Here
Part 5: Michael Cooper on Winning First Championship w/ Showtime Lakers, Developing "Coop-A-Loop"
Part 3: Michael Cooper on Why All Black Players Left His New Mexico College Team Before He Joined
Part 1: Michael Cooper on His Stepfather Killing His Mom's Boyfriend, Mom Leaving Family to Escape
--------
Former Lakers star Michael Cooper shared memories of his early NBA days, revealing he was drafted 60th overall by the Lakers for $30,000. His introduction to the Lakers organization included training alongside legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, forging a lifelong friendship. Despite suffering a serious knee injury that sidelined him in his first year, Cooper credited Lakers GM Jerry West for supporting him through recovery. Cooper also reminisced about welcoming rookie Magic Johnson in 1979. The two quickly bonded, starting each day together at breakfast during training camps, sharing a mutual commitment to elevate the Lakers. Cooper confirmed the 1980 season marked a transformative era, with new leadership and fresh talent setting the foundation for the Lakers’ championship legacy.
Follow Michael Cooper on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/showtimecooper21/
