Showtime in the Desert: South Bay Lakers Relocate and Rebrand as Coachella Valley Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers and representatives from Acrisure Arena made a historic announcement early Thursday morning: the South Bay Lakers, the NBA G League affiliate of the Los Angeles Lakers, will officially relocate to the Coachella Valley and be renamed the Coachella Valley Lakers starting with the 2026-27 season.

The NBA’s G League is the official minor league of the National Basketball Association, serving as a proving ground where players, coaches, and officials develop their skills to reach the NBA. By moving the team to Acrisure Arena, the Lakers organization is tapping into a region with which they have shared a deep bond for decades.

A Legacy Reborn in the Desert

The Lakers' history in the desert dates back to the 1980s, when legendary owner Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Ocotillo Lodge in Palm Springs. During that "Showtime" era, stars like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar stayed in the valley for training camps, with practices often held at the College of the Desert.

Moving the affiliate to Acrisure Arena is seen as a strategic homecoming. "Moving the Lakers G League team to the Coachella Valley is an incredible opportunity," said Lon Rosen, Lakers President of Business Operations. "Acrisure Arena is the perfect modern venue that provides an incredible fan-first experience."

The Firebirds Model for Basketball

The relocation follows the successful blueprint set by the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the AHL affiliate for the NHL’s Seattle Kraken. Just as the Firebirds have become a staple of desert sports, the Coachella Valley Lakers will act as the primary pipeline for the NBA squad.

Lakers insider Trevor Lane of LakersNation.com notes that fans should expect high-intensity action. "You’re going to get players that are going a hundred miles an hour all game," Lane said. The G League has recently showcased high-profile talent like Bronny James, proving that the stars of tomorrow are often just one call-up away from the NBA rotation.

November Tip-Off

While the final 2026-27 schedule has yet to be released, games are slated to begin in November. Fans interested in securing a spot for the inaugural season can place season ticket deposits starting today.

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