Los Angeles Lakers: James Worthy comments on The Forum

The Forum is one of the historic and sacred buildings in Los Angeles sports due to its prominence in the 80s as the home of the Showtime Lakers. It will forever be known as the Los Angeles Lakers‘ old home, seeing as the purple and gold played there from 1967 until1999. In recent years, The Forum has returned to the Los Angeles area as a popular concert and event venue.

Earlier this week, Los Angeles Clippers billionaire owner Steve Ballmer purchased The Forum in Inglewood, CA for a whopping $400 million price tag.

While there might be some interest in moving the Clippers to The Forum to put an end to the sharing of the Staples Center, many believe this was simply a business transaction for Ballmer with no other motive. Only time will tell if that is true.

Los Angeles Lakers legend James Worthy, a member of the Showtime Lakers who played his entire career at The Forum, chimed in.

James Worthy was asked whether or not he believed it was ‘weird’ to think about the Lakers’ cross-town rivals moving into the Lakers’ historic building.

"“Kind of, yeah. The move took place downtown, but we never forgot The Forum. With the new football stadium, [sports] is coming back.”"

As James Worthy mentions, the entire sports dynamic is shifting in Los Angeles. The Rams have made their return to the city with a recent appearance in the Super Bowl. The Chargers are still trying to find their footing and place in Los Angeles lore.

The Lakers and Dodgers appear to be at the top of their respective sports. Now, the Clippers have become a true Hollywood attraction with their additions of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Ballmer is attempting to capitalize on the shifting market.

Worthy also added that he does like Steve Ballmer and respects anyone who attempts to help out the city of Inglewood:

"“I like Steve, you know. He’s a good guy. He’s gonna build a stadium, try to move in on our fans over there. That’s gonna be tough. But you know, I’m all about moving forward and doing what’s good for the city. If it’s going to help Inglewood, if it’s going to bring more employment and all that kind of stuff, I’m all for that.”"

One idea that is fair to question, but definitely has a clear answer is regarding the brand of the Los Angeles Lakers. James Worthy believes it does not.

Does the purchase of The Forum impact the Lakers’ brand?

"“The Lakers brand is what it is. It’s not going anywhere regardless of what he does. So I’m okay with it.”"

While this move might have a minimal effect on the Lakers’ brand, it has everything to do with the Los Angeles Lakers’ brand. Steve Ballmer wants the Clippers to stay in Los Angeles as a long-term force.