On January 9th in sports history, one significant event took place in 1972 when the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Atlanta Hawks 134-90, marking the Lakers' 33rd consecutive victory. This incredible winning streak still stands as the longest in NBA history.
The 1971-72 Lakers team, led by the legendary Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, and Gail Goodrich, was a force to be reckoned with. During their 33-game winning streak, which began on November 5, 1971, and ended on January 9, 1972, the Lakers outscored their opponents by an average of 16 points per game.
On that historic night in 1972, the Lakers were unstoppable at The Forum in Inglewood, California. Chamberlain dominated the paint, scoring 31 points and grabbing 31 rebounds, while West and Goodrich combined for 51 points. The Lakers' fast-paced offense and stifling defense proved too much for the Hawks, who were unable to keep up with the home team's intensity.
The Lakers' 33-game winning streak showcased the team's incredible talent, determination, and cohesiveness. It's a record that has stood the test of time and remains one of the most impressive feats in professional sports history. The 1971-72 Lakers went on to win the NBA Championship that season, cementing their place as one of the greatest teams ever assembled.
