Lakers' Pregame Ritual Revealed by Jake LaRavia

The Lakers' elaborate pregame routine involves multiple players and a series of tricky shots.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:35pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring overlapping brushstrokes of neon orange, electric blue, and vibrant yellow, capturing the dynamic movement and team spirit of the Lakers' pregame ritual.The Lakers' pregame ritual, a tradition that brings the team together and keeps them loose before tip-off, is a key part of their successful season.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Lakers wing Jake LaRavia broke down the team's extensive pregame ritual, which involves LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and other players completing a series of challenging shots before tipoff. The ritual keeps the team loose and focused as they prepare for the game.

Why it matters

The Lakers' strong chemistry and camaraderie have been a key factor in their success this season, and their pregame ritual is just one example of how the team comes together before games. Understanding these types of team-building activities provides insight into why the Lakers have been so effective on the court.

The details

LaRavia explained that the ritual starts with LeBron James throwing a ball as high as he can, followed by the entire team 'dropping' to the floor. Then Dalton Knecht hits a 3-pointer, Austin Reaves makes a finger roll from the 3-point line, and LeBron completes a baseline hook shot. If any of the shots are missed, they have to start the entire sequence over again.

  • The Lakers' pregame ritual takes place before every game.

The players

LeBron James

The star player and leader of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Luka Doncic

A key player on the Lakers' roster.

Austin Reaves

A Lakers player who completes a challenging finger roll shot as part of the pregame ritual.

Dalton Knecht

A Lakers player who hits a 3-pointer as part of the pregame ritual.

Maxi Kleber

A Lakers player who participates in the pregame ritual.

Rui Hachimura

A Lakers player who participates in the pregame ritual.

Jake LaRavia

A Lakers wing player who broke down the team's pregame ritual.

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What they’re saying

“Alright so first, LeBron is just going to throw the ball up in the air as high as he can.”

— Jake LaRavia, Lakers Player

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their successful pregame ritual as they face off against the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs starting on Saturday.

The takeaway

The Lakers' elaborate pregame ritual is a testament to the team's strong chemistry and camaraderie, which have been crucial to their success this season. By coming together in this unique way before games, the Lakers are able to stay loose and focused as they prepare to take care of business on the court.