Our Haute 100 list details the accomplishments of the most influential people in each of our markets—Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. These people continue to make moves, so rather than waiting for the next Haute 100 issue to come out, we thought we’d provide you with regular updates on those Haute 100 members who are making headlines. Check back daily for more info on the most powerful people in your city. Los Angeles Lakers fans were treated to a double-dose of pride Tuesday night at the Staples Center as the champions rang in the 2010-11 season with a win against the Houston Rockets, and a heartfelt championship ceremony, which included the unveiling of the Lakers 16th banner, the 10th in 31 years under owner Dr. Jerry Buss.
Dr. Jerry Buss & Jeanie Buss
Category: Entrepreneurs
Industry: Sports
Company: L.A. Lakers
What Made Him Haute: Under his ownership, the Lakers have won 10 NBA titles, made it to the finals 15 times and won almost 70 percent of their games, making Buss the most successful owner among any professional sports league and the Lakers the most valuable franchise in the NBA. In 2010, Buss was finally inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. His daughter, Jeanie, is the executive vice president of business operations for the Lakers and girlfriend of Lakers’ coach Phil Jackson.
What Makes Him Haute Now: How do the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate greatness? The answer lies in Tuesday night’s revelry at the Staples Center. The overture to the Lakers 2010-11 season opener constituted a fraternal allegiance, the unveiling of the 2009-10 championship banner, and the presentation of arresting championship rings, designed with the influence of Dr. Jerry Buss. Designed by a close friend of the Buss’, each of the approximately 60 16-karat gold championship rings details the 16 titles in franchise history with 16 oversized diamonds, in addition to three karats of diamonds and leather portions of one of the basketballs used during Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Each player’s ring is made even more intricate with a three-dimensional sculpture of his face and jersey number. Lakers executive vice president of business operations Jeanie Buss was an integral part of the ring ceremony, as was the outpouring of thanks to fans, almost 19,000 of which were present at the celebration and opening game, and owner Jerry Buss, whom Kobe Bryant regarded as “the greatest team owner in team sports.” Reminding L.A. fans that “The Trilogy Continues,” the back-to-back champions pulled off a 112-110 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Like Haute Living Los Angeles? Join our Facebook page. Want Haute Living Los Angeles delivered to your in box once a week? Sign up for our newsletter.
News
October 29, 2010La Maison du Chocolat Celebrates 20 Years in New York with
