Lakers News: Hall of Famers Michael Cooper and Gary Payton Lead Rival Teams in Big3 Final

Two former Los Angeles Lakers legends faced off as coaches in the Big3 Championship on August 18. The game featured Gary Payton leading Bivouac against Michael Cooper's 3's Company.

The Big3 , a 3-on-3 basketball league founded in 2017 by Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz, showcases teams made up of former NBA players and international talent. This year's finals were particularly noteworthy as both teams had struggled in previous seasons.

Bivouac had a rough 0-6 record in 2021 and revamped their roster for 2022, adding players like Javier Carter and Corey Brewer. Meanwhile, 3's Company retained Cooper as coach and co-captain Mario Chalmers, while bringing in notable players like Michael Beasley, who was named the league MVP this season.

The championship game started with Bivouac taking a commanding lead, outscoring 3's Company 26-13 in the first half. However, Cooper's team rallied in the second half, narrowing the gap but ultimately falling short, with Bivouac winning 50-47 and claiming the Julius Erving Championship Trophy.

Bivouac's success was largely due to captain Gerald Green, who scored 18 points, including six three-pointers, earning him the title of Finals MVP.

Beasley also shined with 28 points and 12 rebounds, solidifying his MVP status for the season. Garlon Green, Gerald's brother, contributed with 13 points, six rebounds, and four assists.

Payton, a Hall of Fame point guard known for his time with the Seattle Supersonics, celebrated the victory enthusiastically. He is a nine-time NBA All-Star and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.

Payton was certainly ecstatic over the victory, shouting, "REPEEEEEEAT!" in the postgame press conference.

Cooper, who spent his entire career with the Lakers during the Showtime era, is a five-time NBA Champion and was also inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. He will have his jersey retired by the Lakers in January 2025.

This matchup not only highlighted the competitive spirit of these former players but also showcased their lasting impact on the game, both on and off the court.