Unveiling Kurt Rambis: The Surprising 'Hippie' Laker Reshaping Winning Time Season 2
Kurt Rambis, an iconic figure in Lakers history, boasts an extensive career as both a player and coach From his early days playing in Greece to his coaching tenure alongside Phil Jackson, Rambis has left an indelible mark on the Lakers franchise In recognition of his accomplishments, he and his wife Linda were appointed as Lakers executives by Jeanie Buss in 2018
Summary
Kurt Rambis had a significant impact on the success of the Showtime Lakers during the 1980s, despite his limited role in the latest episode of Winning Time.
Rambis started his basketball journey professionally in Greece before transitioning to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1981, where he remained until 1995. Serving as a Lakers coach from 1994 to 2009, Rambis played a pivotal role in the team's triumphant moments, clinching several NBA championships. Presently, he holds an executive position for the Lakers, working alongside his wife, Linda Rambis.
Kurt Rambis made his debut in Kurt Rambis Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, marking the start of his lengthy tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers. In Winning Time season 2, episode 4, actor Joel Allen portrays Rambis as the "hippie" addition to the 1981-82 Lakers roster. Standing at 6' 8", Rambis was signed by the Lakers to address the team's size deficiencies after trading Jim Chones for Mitch Kupchak, as depicted in episode 3 of Winning Time season 2. Similar to Kupchak, Rambis would go on to play a significant role in the Lakers front office after retiring as a player.
Winning Time season 2, episode 4 delves into the struggles faced by the Lakers at the start of the 1981-82 season, specifically focusing on the issues within their locker room. The episode highlights the escalating tensions between Coach Paul Westhead and superstar Magic Johnson, which ultimately led to Magic requesting a trade just months after signing a lucrative $25 million deal with the Lakers. Although Rambis' impact in the latest episode of Winning Time may have been minimal, he would go on to play a crucial role in the success of the Showtime Lakers throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Kurt Rambis Played In Greece Before Signing With The 1981 Lakers
Kurt Rambis initiated his professional basketball career with the AEK Athens Basketball Club. He had a four-year stint playing for the Santa Clara University basketball team from 1976 to 1980, where he established himself as the second-highest rebounder and all-time leading scorer in the school's history. In the 1980 NBA Draft, Rambis was chosen as the 58th overall pick in the third round by the New York Knicks but was eventually released.
With a strong determination to kick-start his basketball career in his home country Greece, Rambis competed in the Greek League using the name Kyriakos Rambis. He achieved success by winning the Greek Cup in 1981 with AEK. Following this international accomplishment, the Knicks re-signed Rambis; however, he did not have the opportunity to compete in any games during the conclusion of the 1980-81 season. Rambis eventually found his place within the Los Angeles Lakers at the beginning of the 1981-82 NBA season. He went on to have a lengthy tenure in the NBA, primarily with the Lakers, until 1995.
Rambis Became A Lakers Coach Between 1994-2009 Alongside Phil Jackson
Rambis had a lasting impact on the Lakers during his time with them from 1981-1988, contributing to their numerous NBA Championships. Known for his hard work and gritty style of play, he became a fan favorite and a symbol of dedication. Despite the team's fast and flashy playing style, Rambis stood out as a selfless team player. His contributions were vital to the team's incredible success during that period.
After leaving the Lakers, Rambis played for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, and Sacramento Kings. He began his coaching career with the Lakers in 1994, returning as a player. He retired as a Laker in 1995 and immediately transitioned into an assistant coaching role. He briefly served as head coach after Del Harris was fired, but Phil Jackson was eventually hired as the replacement. Rambis continued to contribute to the team's success as the Assistant General Manager and Assistant Coach from 2001 to 2004, helping the Lakers secure the NBA title in 2002.
Kurt & Linda Rambis Were Made Lakers Executives In 2018 By Jeanie Buss
In 2018, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss appointed Kurt Rambis as a senior basketball advisor. Prior to this, Rambis had held roles as an assistant coach and head coach for the Timberwolves and the Nets from 2009 to 2018. Linda Rambis, who is a close friend of Jeanie Buss, holds the position of Lakers Executive Director of Special Projects. Together, the Rambis couple plays a significant role in all matters concerning the Lakers front office. Throughout his career, Kurt Rambis has been involved in nine NBA Championships as a player, coach, and executive, making him one of the most influential individuals affiliated with the Los Angeles Lakers. The highly anticipated Winning Time season 2 will likely feature his memorable 1982 Championship run alongside Magic Johnson.
