World's Best Cities for Basketball Fans: Los Angeles, USA

The third in our series of the best cities in the world for basketball fans to visit, this time we're exploring what Los Angeles in California, USA has to offer.

🏀 Los Angeles Basketball Vibes: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Los Angeles Basketball History & Culture

Basketball is part of Los Angeles’ identity, embodied by a fusion of showbiz sparkle, raw streetball grit, and championship pedigree. From Inglewood to South Central, from Venice Beach to the San Fernando Valley, the city’s courts have launched countless stars and built a culture all of its own.

Showtime and the Staples Legacy

In the 1980s, the “Showtime” Lakers changed the game forever. With Magic Johnson running the floor and Kareem dominating the paint, basketball at The Forum became an event. It was fast, glamorous, and packed with A-list fans. 

That legacy continued when the team moved downtown in 1999, where the Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) became the new home of stars like Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and eventually LeBron James.

Even when the team struggles, a Lakers game still feels like a big night out. From Jack Nicholson to Snoop Dogg, courtside culture in LA is just as iconic as what happens on the hardwood.

A Tale of Two Teams

Los Angeles is one of just two U.S. cities with two NBA franchises, creating a unique local rivalry. The Lakers, 17-time NBA champions, represent tradition, global fandom, and generational excellence. 

The Clippers, long the underdogs, have steadily built a new identity around grit, talent, and reinvention. In LA, choosing your team is more than just picking colours, it’s picking a mindset.

While both teams previously shared the Crypto.com Arena, that changed in 2025 when the Clippers moved into their own dedicated home: the Intuit Dome in Inglewood.

A Game Woven into the Fabric of the City

Basketball is everywhere in LA. It’s in the murals on Pico Boulevard. It’s in the bounce of the ball on Venice Beach. It’s in the stories from high school coaches, the highlight reels from AAU tournaments, and the summer magic of the Drew League.

The city has long been a talent factory, developing future NBA stars through powerhouse high school programs like Sierra Canyon, Westchester, and Fairfax. 

At the grassroots level, the Drew League remains one of the most respected and competitive summer leagues in the world, attracting NBA pros, local legends, and fans who line up hours in advance just to get a seat.

Unique Experiences For Basketball Fans in Los Angeles

Whether you're chasing NBA glamour, outdoor pickup games, or behind-the-scenes basketball history, LA offers a complete experience for basketball lovers. Here's what to check out:

1. Watch a Lakers Game at Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center)

LA’s premier basketball venue is the home of the famous LA Lakers, making it a must-see for any basketball fan in the city.

• Historic Stage: From Shaq & Kobe dominance to LeBron’s championship run in 2020, this arena has witnessed countless defining NBA moments.

• Celebrity Energy: Courtside sightings are standard. Jack Nicholson, Rihanna, Denzel Washington, and Drake are frequent attendees, along with a whole host of other A-listers.

• High-Production Value: Laser intros, live DJs, and cinematic hype videos make every game feel like a Hollywood premiere.

Tip: Arrive early to explore the Star Plaza, featuring statues of Lakers legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jerry West, and Shaquille O’Neal.

2. Shop Official Merch at Team Stores

As you’d probably expect, Los Angeles has top-tier options for picking up official Lakers and Clippers gear, including some of the best team store setups in the league.

Lakers Team Store

One of several official stores in the state, but the only one in LA, the Lakers store is called Team LA and can be found at the Crypto.com arena. Here you can find a huge range of Lakers branded products from the team’s classic gold & purple jerseys to exclusive collabs, Kobe tribute merch, and championship memorabilia.

• Location: Inside Crypto.com Arena - 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

• Open: Mon - Sun: 10:00am - 6:00pm (store closes 90 mins before sporting events on game days)

Clippers Fan Shop

The official Clippers’ Store in LA, called ‘The Flagship’, is located within the 80,000 square-foot outdoor plaza at the Intuit Dome. Alongside official team jerseys and apparel fans can pick up personalised clothing, custom engraved basketballs and limited edition collabs with brands like New Era and Lululemon.

• Location: Outdoor Plaza at Intuit Dome, 3930 W Century Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90303

• Hours: Mon - Thu: 12:00pm - 5:00pm; Closed Fri – Sun (open on game days)
  
  

3. Feel the Vibe at the Drew League

The Drew League is LA’s crown jewel of summer basketball. What began in 1973 as a local community league has become a global attraction. Fans come here to see NBA stars, overseas pros, and hungry streetballers clash in tightly packed gyms.

• LeBron, Kobe, Harden, DeMar DeRozan, and Trae Young have all suited up here.

• Games are free, intense, and incredibly intimate. Fans sit right on top of the action.

• It’s the best way to witness the raw roots of the pro game and LA's basketball hunger.

Location: King/Drew Magnet High School Gym, 1601 E 120th St, Los Angeles, CA 90059
Season: June – August (Weekends only)

Tip: Arrive early; seating is first-come, first-served, and lines wrap around the block for marquee games.

4. Discover Kobe Bryant Murals with the Mamba Mural Map

Since Kobe Bryant’s passing in 2020, artists and fans have created over 600 murals across Los Angeles to honor his legacy. These powerful works of art are spread throughout the city and have become a unique pilgrimage for basketball fans visiting LA. 

Use the interactive Mamba Mural Map at kobemural.com to locate murals by zip code or neighborhood. Highlights include:

• Venice Beach Courts: Home to a striking Kobe and Gigi mural near the boardwalk.

• Downtown LA (Pico Blvd): Features a massive, fan-favorite tribute piece that has become iconic.

• Mid-City & South LA: Residential neighborhoods filled with local artist tributes in alleys, schools, and storefronts.

Tip: Combine your mural tour with stops at street courts or Lakers hotspots for a full cultural experience.

5. Visit Legendary Street Courts Like Venice Beach

LA’s outdoor basketball culture is vibrant, stylish, and sun-drenched. You’ll find intense pickup games happening year-round, with players showcasing creative flair, fast pace, and trash talk that’s all part of the game. Top picks include:

• Venice Beach Courts: LA’s most photographed blacktops, featured in movies and music videos. Games here are fast, physical, and often include aspiring pros or influencers.

• Pan Pacific Park: Central location, regular pickup games, and popular with local talent.

• Westchester Recreation Center: Where many LA high school legends still return to play.

Check out this map to see where the top courts are located in the city:

Top Teams in Los Angeles: Lakers & Clippers

Los Angeles has been one of the most iconic basketball cities in the world for decades, producing championship dynasties, cultural legends, and a deep grassroots scene. Two major NBA franchises shape the city’s basketball landscape: the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers.

Both teams play in the NBA’s Western Conference and have cultivated distinct identities within the city.

The Lakers are one of the most decorated teams in sports history. From the “Showtime” era with Magic Johnson, to the dominance of Shaq and Kobe, to the leadership of LeBron James, the Lakers have been a dynasty marked by drama, star power, and titles. Their games are global events, and their fandom stretches far beyond California.

The Clippers, once overshadowed by their cross-town rivals, have become one of the most compelling modern franchises in the league. The early 2010s “Lob City” era brought excitement, while the current roster led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George has kept them in title contention. 

Backed by tech billionaire Steve Ballmer, the team’s investment in facilities, branding, and fan culture signals long-term ambition and staying power.

The rivalry between the two is no longer just about location - it’s about legacy vs. reinvention, banners vs. blueprints, and old-school fandom vs. new-age loyalty. Every matchup adds to LA’s rich basketball narrative, now played out across two iconic arenas.

Season Schedules & Ticket Prices

NBA Regular Season: October – April

NBA Playoffs: April – June

Los Angeles Lakers Tickets

• Single game tickets: Prices range from around $100 to $1,500+, depending on the opponent and seat location.

• VIP Packages: Offer premium seating with access to the Lexus Club or Chairman’s Lounge, valet parking, in-seat service, and tunnel access for player views.

• Where to buy: Official tickets are available through Lakers.com, Ticketmaster, or the Crypto.com Arena box office.

Los Angeles Clippers Tickets

• Single game tickets: Prices range from around $30 to $500+, depending on the game and seat type.

• VIP Packages: Include access to exclusive lounges like the Crown Club and Tunnel Club, on-court experiences, dedicated entrances, and luxury seating within the new Intuit Dome.

• Where to buy: Official tickets can be purchased through Clippers.com, SeatGeek (official partner), or at the Intuit Dome box office.

Famous Basketball Players From Los Angeles

Los Angeles has produced some of basketball’s most electric and influential talents. Whether they were born in the city, raised in its neighborhoods, or shaped by its fierce high school and summer league circuits, these players embody LA’s signature mix of skill, swagger, and resilience.

Russell Westbrook

Born: Long Beach, CA

Notable Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, LA Lakers, LA Clippers

Accolades: NBA MVP (2017), 9× NBA All-Star, 2× NBA scoring champion

A product of Leuzinger High School and UCLA, Westbrook plays with intensity that mirrors LA’s edge. Known for his explosive athleticism and relentless motor, he’s become a Drew League fixture and a local hero for his community work in South LA.

Paul George

Born: Palmdale, CA

Notable Teams: Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, LA Clippers

Accolades: 8× NBA All-Star, 6× All-NBA Team, Olympic Gold Medalist

Although born in the High Desert north of LA, George embodies Southern California basketball pride. His two-way versatility has made him a cornerstone for the Clippers and a regular presence in LA basketball culture on and off the court.

Lisa Leslie

Born: Gardena, CA

Notable Teams: Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA)

Accolades: 3× WNBA MVP, 4× Olympic Gold Medalist, 2× WNBA Champion, Hall of Fame inductee

A trailblazer for women’s basketball, Leslie starred at Morningside High and USC before dominating the WNBA. As the face of the LA Sparks during the league’s formative years, she helped put women’s professional basketball on the map — and remains an icon in LA sports.

Baron Davis

Born: South Central Los Angeles, CA

Notable Teams: Charlotte Hornets, Golden State Warriors, LA Clippers

Accolades: 2× NBA All-Star, NCAA Final Four (UCLA), Drew League legend

Baron Davis is pure LA. Raised in South Central and schooled at Crossroads in Santa Monica, he combined flash, toughness, and creativity. From dunking over Andrei Kirilenko in the 2007 playoffs to supporting LA basketball initiatives, his legacy spans both pro and streetball levels.

DeMar DeRozan

Born: Compton, CA

Notable Teams: Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls

Accolades: 6× NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team (2018), Olympic Gold Medalist

Raised in Compton and a product of the famed Drew League, DeRozan is one of LA’s most respected sons. He brings a calm, calculated game built on footwork and midrange mastery — but he’s also a vocal advocate for mental health and a fixture in the LA community.

Los Angeles Travel

Even if you're not a die-hard hoops fan, LA still delivers, with its year-round sunshine, beaches, world-class food, and iconic entertainment scene.

The city’s sprawl can be intimidating, but it’s packed with energy and personality. Whether you’re catching a game at Crypto.com Arena or watching a sunset pickup run at Venice Beach, LA brings basketball and lifestyle together in unforgettable ways.

When To Go

If you want to catch a game when you visit Los Angeles (and we highly recommend you do), here’s the ideal basketball calendar:

• NBA Regular Season: October to April

• NBA Playoffs: April to June

• Drew League: June to August (weekends only)

Flights & Hotels

Traveling from New York City to Los Angeles is straightforward, with multiple airlines offering nonstop daily service between JFK and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The flight takes approximately six hours, making it an easy coast-to-coast trip for basketball fans planning a long weekend or extended stay.

Round-trip airfare typically ranges from $250 to $400, depending on the time of year, day of the week, and how far in advance you book.

With two NBA arenas in different parts of the city, Los Angeles offers a variety of hotel options depending on which team you’re seeing and your budget.

For Lakers games at Crypto.com Arena (Downtown Los Angeles):

$ Affordable: Freehand Los Angeles

Located on East 8th Street, about a 15-minute walk from the arena. Offers shared or private rooms with stylish design at accessible prices.

$$ Mid-Range: Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown

Just a 5-minute walk to Crypto.com Arena on South Francisco Street, this modern hotel is popular with event goers and features skyline views and great amenities.

$$$ Baller: The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

Directly adjacent to the arena at L.A. Live, this high-end hotel provides premium access, spa services, and upscale dining for those looking to pair the game with luxury.

For Clippers games at the Intuit Dome (Inglewood):

$ Affordable: Hollywood Inn Express LAX

Located on West Century Boulevard, around a 10-minute walk to the Intuit Dome. A convenient and economical choice for fans flying into LAX.

$$ Mid-Range: Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside

Situated in nearby Culver City, this hotel offers comfort and is about 15 minutes by car to the arena.

$$$ Baller: The Westin Los Angeles Airport

Just a 10-minute drive from the Intuit Dome, this full-service hotel combines proximity with comfort and is ideal for fans traveling in or out of LAX.

Why Basketball Fans Should Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the few cities where basketball is deeply embedded into sports and entertainment culture. It offers fans access to two major NBA franchises, world-class arenas, and one of the richest legacies in the game. 

The opening of the Clippers’ new Intuit Dome and the ongoing legacy of the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena give fans the chance to experience basketball in two distinct settings, each with its own atmosphere and energy.

Beyond the games, L.A. offers basketball-inspired art, iconic public courts, and a year-round climate that keeps the sport alive outdoors. Whether you're sitting courtside at a Lakers game, exploring Kobe Bryant murals, or watching pickup hoops on Venice Beach, Los Angeles delivers a full-spectrum basketball experience.

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