Our first Lakers game!
We’ve been in LA for 7 years, and never ONCE have we gone to a Lakers game (I know, sad isn’t it?!). The real issue is that tickets for the games are NOT cheap (at least for decent seats anyway) so we have procrastinated dropping $85/ticket on them. However, this year one of SJ’s client’s was kind enough to lend us their season tickets as a Christmas gift (anyone that doesn’t know what to get that special someone on their list – let me recommend Lakers tickets!)
Not only did we get the tickets, but we also got to park in the season ticket holders parking lot. Parking in downtown LA is strange. There is usually street parking (if you’re willing to wait long enough and/or park far enough away from your destination), there is also a variety of lots. Most of which charge $15-$25 on a game/event night. The great part about the season ticket holder lot is that is is a.) the closest lot to Staples center (literally, right across the road) and 2.) it’s a $35 lot without a pass (which you can’t even buy on Lakers game nights)
After zipping into our convenient parking spot, we walked across the street through the festive sights and sounds of LA Live, and into Staples Center. Our seats were great (mid second level) so we wandered around for a bit to find a bite to eat. Food is pretty standard event food ($5 hotdogs, $8 beer) but we had a booth close to our seats so at least we didn’t have to hike half way around the building to find what we wanted 
We’ve been to a couple of Clippers games before, so were familiar with Staples on a game night (yes, they share the same building) but let me tell you – Lakers games are as to day as Clippers games are to night. The are VERY different. To begin with, the opening introductions are a HUGE production. Lights, smoke, video, sound effects, etc … Clippers games are … well, more like a high school championship. Not only the introductions, but the whole production of the game is SOOOO much better when the Lakers are running the show (guess you don’t get all those world championships without a production budget and knowing your way around the ropes!).
The Jazz stayed close with the Lakers through 3 quarters of action, but in the final 12 minutes LA put on a 20-0 nothing run and put the game on ice. Of course there were several stars in attendance (Jack Nicholson, Jack Black, Denzel Washington) which made for a fun experience too!
After the game we hustled out into the chilly air (ok, it was only 40 something but it seemed chilly to us!) and had a final chance to soak up the sights and sounds of LA Live as we made our way back to the car. Here’s hoping our next Lakers game isn’t another 7 years in the works!
SJ at LA Live after the Lakers vs. Jazz game
Clinton in front of Staples Center after the Lakers vs. Jazz game
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