This Day In Lakers History: Chick Hearn Calls 2,000th Consecutive Game
Chick Hearn, Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have a rich and storied history, one that has seen some of the biggest names in professional basketball put on the purple and gold. Equally revered in Lakers lore is Chick Hearn, the legendary play-by-play man who called his 2,000th consecutive Lakers game on Feb. 28, 1987.

Hearn’s incredible streak began in November of 1965 when he first slid into the announcer’s chair for the Lakers. He quickly became a favorite with fans thanks to his fast-talking and quick wit while calling the game.

Known for a variety of catchphrases, Hearn used terms like “popcorn machine” to describe when a defender bites on a pump-fake and “the mustard is off the hot dog” when a fancy play goes awry.

It was Chick-isms like these that kept fans drawn to Hearn for years and ultimately made him as synonymous with Lakers basketball as any of the great players who have taken the floor for the team.

Perhaps Hearn’s most famous catchphrase came whenever it was clear that the Lakers were going to win a game.

On those occasions, Hearn would declare that the game was “in the refrigerator,” and for emphasis would add that “the door is closed, the lights are out, the eggs are cooling, the butter’s getting hard, and the jellooooo is jiggling.”

Hearn’s 2,000th game, unfortunately, came in a 107-100 loss to the Utah Jazz, snapping a six-game winning streak. But that did little to lessen the importance of the moment.

When Chick Hearn’s streak ended

Ultimately, Hearn’s streak reached 3,338 games. He passed away in the summer of 2002, and today has a jersey retired in the rafters of the Staples Center as well as a statue outside the arena. While the team has seen a number of different play-by-play commentators take over in the years since, Hearn will forever be the voice associated with the Lakers.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

Lakers Draft Workouts: Shareef O’Neal Reveals Dad Shaquille Wanted Him To Stay In College Instead Of Declaring For 2022 NBA Draft

Shareef O’Neal worked out with the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday — as legendary center Shaquille O’Neal’s son hopes to rejuvenate…

Frank Vogel: LeBron James & Lakers’ Conditioning Still Improving

This season has not been one to remember for LeBron James and the Los Angeles so far. While his numbers on the court…

Dennis Schroder: Lakers Must Prioritize ‘Unselfishness Without The Ball’ To Improve Offense

The Los Angeles Lakers have done incredible work defensively during their first-round series against the Phoenix Suns…

Trevor Ariza Believes Veteran Experience Gives Lakers An Edge

Trevor Ariza was one of the many players who reunited with the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency as the team targeted veterans…