The Los Angeles Lakers got a surprise visit from one of their most loyal supporters on Friday, as rap legend Snoop Dogg dropped in at the UCLA Health Training Center during a team practice session. The veteran artist was on-site for an exclusive interview but took the opportunity to greet the entire roster as they entered the facility, catching many players off guard in the best way possible.
Snoop, a lifelong Lakers devotee known for his fiery passion — both celebratory and critical — was welcomed with big smiles, handshakes and hugs from players and staff alike. Even without his usual “goodies,” as he jokingly noted, the West Coast icon instantly became the center of attention.
A personal connection with Lakers past and present
Few celebrity fans are as tied to the Lakers identity as Snoop Dogg. He has been a courtside regular for decades and is known for forging authentic relationships with both current and former stars — including LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
His dedication has always cut both ways: he celebrates championships loudly and publicly but also never holds back when calling out the team during disappointing stretches. Despite that honesty, the roster’s response at practice made it clear that Snoop remains one of the most respected supporters of the purple and gold.
Players sign custom Lakers jacket
During his visit, Snoop asked players to autograph a custom Lakers jacket — and the team happily obliged. Among those who signed:
- Luka Dončić
- LeBron James
- Marcus Smart
- Rui Hachimura
- Jaxson Hayes
- Dalton Knecht
The moment served as both a tribute to Snoop’s decades-long fandom and a reminder of how deeply entrenched he is within Lakers culture.
Lakers rest after grueling road stretch
The surprise appearance came at the perfect time. Los Angeles had just returned from a demanding five-game road trip that featured stops in:
- Atlanta
- Charlotte
- Oklahoma City
- New Orleans
- Milwaukee
The homecoming was special not only because of Snoop’s visit, but because it also marked LeBron James’ season debut, following 14 missed games due to a nerve issue.
Just days later, the Lakers handled the Utah Jazz in a 140–126 victory. Luka Dončić powered the night with 34 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in just 34 minutes, while the team pulled away decisively in the second quarter.
With the win secured, the Lakers now enjoy a rare five-day break — a welcome breather for a roster dealing with early-season bumps and bruises. Dončić and Austin Reaves are managing minor injuries, while James confirmed he is playing without pain for the first time this year.
Schedule ahead
Los Angeles resumes play on Sunday, facing the Jazz again — this time in Salt Lake City. After that, the Lakers will settle into a four-game homestand featuring matchups with:
- LA Clippers
- Dallas Mavericks
- New Orleans Pelicans
- Phoenix Suns
If the atmosphere at Friday’s practice was any indication, team morale is high — and Snoop Dogg’s big entrance only elevated the energy as the Lakers prepare for the next stretch of their season.
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