| Abdul-Jabbar |
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Sept. 2 -- Former Lakers player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been hired by the team to serve as Special Assistant Coach it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak.
“We are pleased to welcome Kareem back to the organization.” said Kupchak. “Kareem was one of the best centers to ever play the game. His skills and talent on the court were truly remarkable and we look forward to having Kareem help our big men develop these skills and tutor them on what it takes to be a successful player in this league.”
In his position Abdul-Jabbar will work with the Lakers players throughout the year. He will begin working immediately and will accompany the team to Hawaii for training camp. In addition, he will work with the players at all home practices.
Abdul-Jabbar was a member of the Lakers from 1975-1989. He finished his career as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (38,287) a record that still stands today. His accolades include six NBA Championships (1971, 80, 82, 85 and 88); six-time NBA MVP (1971, 72, 74, 76, 77 and 80); 10-time All-NBA First Team; Five-time All-NBA Second Team; Five-time All-Defensive First team; Six-time All-Defensive Second Team and 19-time All-Star.