The Unforgettable Legacy: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Number 24 On The Los Angeles Lakers

As of December 2025, the question of "Who wears number 24 on the Lakers?" has a singular, definitive answer: no one. The iconic jersey number 24 is permanently retired by the Los Angeles Lakers, reserved for the memory and unparalleled legacy of the late, great Kobe Bean Bryant. This jersey is not just a number; it represents the second, arguably more dominant, half of a 20-year career that solidified Bryant's status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

The decision to retire both his No. 8 and No. 24 jerseys in 2017 made Kobe Bryant the only player in NBA history to have two numbers retired by the same franchise, a testament to the distinct eras of his career. While the No. 8 era was defined by youthful explosiveness and three championships, the No. 24 era showcased an evolution into a mature, relentless leader who demanded perfection, embodying the famous "Mamba Mentality."

The Mamba's Second Act: Kobe Bryant's No. 24 Biography and Stats

The shift from No. 8 to No. 24 in the summer of 2006 marked a significant turning point in Kobe Bryant’s career and personal life. He sought a fresh start, a new identity, and a number that reflected his maturity and renewed focus on winning. The number 24 was a symbolic choice, representing the 24 hours in a day and his commitment to giving his all, every hour, every day, in his pursuit of greatness.

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• Full Name: Kobe Bean Bryant
• Born: August 23, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Died: January 26, 2020, in Calabasas, California
• Height: 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
• Position: Shooting Guard
• Lakers Career (No. 24 Era): 2006–2016 (10 seasons)
• NBA Championships (No. 24): 2 (2009, 2010)
• NBA Finals MVP (No. 24): 2 (2009, 2010)
• NBA Regular Season MVP (No. 24): 1 (2008)
• All-NBA First Team (No. 24): 7 selections
• All-Defensive First Team (No. 24): 5 selections
• Scoring Title (No. 24): 1 (2007)
• Career Points (No. 24 Era): 16,866 points
• Lakers Retirement Date: December 18, 2017 (Both No. 8 and No. 24)

During the No. 24 period, Bryant transformed his game from a high-flying prodigy to a master of footwork and mid-range precision. This era saw him lead the Los Angeles Lakers to back-to-back NBA titles in 2009 and 2010, cementing his legacy as a solo superstar who could carry a franchise to ultimate success. The intensity of his "Mamba Mentality" became synonymous with the number itself.

The Exclusive Club: The Switch from No. 8 to No. 24

The decision to change jersey numbers mid-career is rare, but retiring both is unprecedented in NBA history. Kobe's switch was more than a wardrobe change; it was a psychological and symbolic reset. The No. 8 represented his early years, the Shaquille O'Neal dynasty, the three-peat, and the immense pressure of being a young phenom. The No. 24 era, however, was about proving he could win on his own terms and surpassing his previous accomplishments.

Many fans and analysts debate which number represents the "better" Kobe Bryant. While the No. 8 Kobe was an athletic marvel, the No. 24 Kobe was a strategic, polished assassin. He won his only MVP award in 2008 while wearing No. 24 and scored his career-high of 81 points in 2006, just before the switch, a performance that bridges the two eras. The retirement of both numbers acknowledges that both chapters were essential to the complete story of the Lakers legend.

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Before Kobe: The Other Players Who Wore Lakers No. 24

While the number 24 is now universally tied to the "Black Mamba," several other players wore the jersey for the Los Angeles Lakers before it became hallowed ground. Understanding this history provides a deeper appreciation for the number's journey and the weight of the legacy it now carries. These players are often forgotten but are part of the number's complete story, showcasing the evolution of the franchise's roster over the decades.

The list of players who wore No. 24 before Kobe Bryant includes a mix of short-term role players and established veterans. The last player to wear No. 24 before Bryant took it over in 2006 was Jim Jackson. Jackson wore the jersey briefly during the 2005-2006 season, a transitional period for the team as they looked to rebuild around Kobe.

Other notable entities and players who donned the number 24 for the Lakers include:

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• Gary Alcorn (1959–1960)
• Walt Dukes (1963–1964)
• Butch Carter (1980–1981)
• Ron Boone (1981–1982)
• Adrian Branch (1986–1987)
• Steve Bucknall (1989–1990)
• Lloyd Daniels (1994–1995)
• Jim Jackson (2005–2006)

Each of these players contributed to the Lakers' history, even if their tenure was brief. Their presence on this list highlights how a common jersey number can be transformed into an untouchable symbol of greatness by one transcendent athlete. The historical context adds depth to the modern significance of the number 24.

The Retirement Ceremony and Enduring Global Impact

The retirement of both No. 8 and No. 24 on December 18, 2017, was a monumental event, not just for the Lakers but for the entire basketball world. The ceremony, held during a game against the Golden State Warriors, was an emotional tribute to a player who had given everything to the franchise. The sight of both jerseys hanging side-by-side in the rafters of the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena) is a constant reminder of his dual-era dominance.

Kobe Bryant’s impact extends far beyond the statistics and accolades. His "Mamba Mentality," a relentless drive for self-improvement and competitive ferocity, has become a global phenomenon, influencing athletes, entrepreneurs, and individuals across various fields. The number 24 on a Lakers jersey is now a permanent symbol of this ethos. The jersey's retirement ensures that every player who looks up at the rafters understands the standard of excellence and commitment required to wear the purple and gold.

The tragedy of his passing in 2020 only amplified the emotional weight and significance of the number 24. It transformed from a retired jersey into a sacred memorial. The number is now a crucial part of the Lakers' identity, symbolizing a dedication to winning and a refusal to back down from any challenge. This enduring legacy ensures that future generations of basketball fans and players will continue to study and honor the career of the "Black Mamba." The number 24 is not merely retired; it is immortalized.