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Pre-Los Angeles Lakers: The Detroit Gems


Detroit Gems
Gears and Gems in action from the December 16, 1946, Chicago Tribune

Yup. Before becoming the illustrious NBA team that they are today, the Los Angeles Lakers' history starts with an NBL team known as the Detroit Gems. The Detroit Gems played in the NBL for only one season (1946-67) before disbanding and becoming the Minneapolis Lakers. Were the Detroit Gems any good? Well, you're going to have to scroll down to know!

 

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