The Mystery of #00: Uncovering the Story of Calvin Garrett and the Lakers' Unique Jersey Number
The Los Angeles Lakers boast a rich and storied history, filled with legendary players and iconic jerseys. While many recognize the numbers of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant, there’s a peculiar and often-overlooked number that stands out: #00. This series delves into the intriguing history of the Lakers’ jersey numbers, starting with the player who dared to wear it – Calvin Garrett.
Calvin Garrett, a 6’7”, 190-pound forward, arrived in Los Angeles in 1983. He was a relatively unknown commodity, drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 1982 before being traded to the Lakers. What made Garrett’s arrival truly memorable wasn't his on-court performance (though he contributed as a role player), but the unique jersey number he requested – #00.
Why #00? The Story Behind the Choice
The story behind Garrett’s choice is shrouded in a bit of mystery and anecdotal accounts. The most common narrative is that Garrett, a young player eager to make an impression, wanted a number that was both unconventional and attention-grabbing. He felt that “00” was more striking than a simple “0.” It was a bold statement, a way to stand out in a locker room filled with established players and legendary numbers.
However, there's another, less-publicized version of the story. Some suggest Garrett’s number choice was influenced by his admiration for the Miami Dolphins’ running back Larry Csonka, who famously wore #22. Garrett, wanting something equally distinctive, decided to take it a step further with #00.
Garrett’s Lakers Career
Garrett played three seasons with the Lakers (1983-1986). While he never became a star, he was a reliable role player, known for his defensive effort and hustle. He averaged around 4.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game during his time in Los Angeles. He was part of a Lakers team that was transitioning from the Magic Johnson-led Showtime era, a period of significant change and rebuilding.
Wearing #00 certainly made Garrett a memorable figure, even if his contributions on the court were not as substantial as some of his teammates. He represents a unique footnote in Lakers history – a player who dared to defy convention and wear a number that few others have.
The Legacy of #00
After Garrett left the Lakers, the #00 jersey remained largely unused for many years. It’s a testament to the rarity of the number and the desire of players to choose more traditional jersey numbers. The jersey’s uniqueness continues to intrigue Lakers fans, sparking conversations about its history and the player who wore it.
This is just the beginning of our series exploring the Lakers’ jersey number history. Join us as we uncover the stories behind other lesser-known and unique numbers that have graced the Purple and Gold.