How a coaching change and a legendary duo ended a twelve-year drought

History · Published 6 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Following a devastating playoff sweep in 1999, the Los Angeles Lakers underwent a massive transformation. By hiring Phil Jackson and moving into a brand-new arena, they assembled a powerhouse roster. This strategic overhaul ultimately ended a twelve-year championship drought, setting the stage for one of basketball's most dominant eras.

The 2000 NBA Finals featured a clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Indiana Pacers, two teams both playing in newly opened arenas. The Lakers, led by the powerhouse duo of Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, were looking to secure their first title since 1988. To achieve this, General Manager Jerry West implemented a massive overhaul, bringing in head coach Phil Jackson and surrounding his stars with experienced veterans like Ron Harper and A.C. Green.

The series was a grueling battle of attrition. While the Lakers held home-court advantage, the Pacers proved they could compete at the highest level. The games were marked by intense physical play and strategic gambles, such as Indiana's use of the 'Hack-a-Shaq' strategy to exploit O'Neal's free-throw struggles. O'Neal, however, responded with a historic performance, averaging roughly 38 points, 17 rebounds, and nearly 3 blocks per game, earning his first of three consecutive Finals MVP honors.

The path to the championship was anything but smooth. The Lakers faced significant hurdles, including a serious ankle injury to Kobe Bryant in Game 2 and a devastating 33-point loss in Game 5. Despite these setbacks and a highly competitive Indiana squad led by Reggie Miller, the Lakers managed to clinch the series in six games. This victory launched a historic era, as the Lakers would go on to win consecutive championships in 2001 and 2002.

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