Five years have passed since the Los Angeles Lakers claimed the NBA championship in 2020, a victory achieved within the confines of the Disney World bubble. While time has moved on, the debate surrounding the legitimacy of that title remains a hot topic among fans, players, and analysts alike. Recently, Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey reignited the discussion during an appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast, making a comment that many have taken as a candid reflection of sentiments within the league.
When asked about perceptions of the 2020 championship, Morey stated, “There’s definitely a feeling that the bubble was different. Not illegitimate, but different. And some people around the league see it with an asterisk, unofficially.” His remarks have prompted renewed scrutiny of the unique circumstances surrounding that season and whether they diminish the significance of the Lakers’ achievement.
The Bubble Experience: A Double-Edged Sword
The NBA bubble was established as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a controlled environment that eliminated travel, fan presence, and many external pressures typically associated with the playoffs. For some, this environment was seen as a level playing field, allowing players to focus solely on basketball. However, others argue that the absence of traditional playoff chaos made the competition less rigorous.
This debate isn’t new; several prominent figures in the NBA have expressed similar views. In 2021, Scottie Pippen stated that the “AAU-style ball” played in the bubble lacked the intensity of traditional playoff basketball. Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley have also hinted at the notion that the bubble playoffs felt more like a “pickup game” than a championship battle.
In contrast, LeBron James, the leader of the Lakers, has consistently defended the legitimacy of the title. He described the 2020 championship as “the most challenging championship in NBA history,” emphasizing the mental and emotional toll of competing in isolation during a global crisis. “You had to be mentally locked in,” he told ESPN in 2022. “No distractions, just basketball—and your thoughts.”
Statistical Highlights and Player Performances
Despite the ongoing debate, the statistics from the bubble season showcase some of the highest levels of play in recent memory. Players like Jamal Murray and Devin Booker had breakout performances, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination. Importantly, all teams competed under the same conditions, which some argue should negate claims of an asterisk.
Goran Dragic, who played for the Miami Heat during their Finals run against the Lakers, succinctly rebutted Morey’s comments with a tweet stating, “No asterisks. That bubble was real ball.” His perspective highlights the pride and effort that players invested in that unique season.
The Legacy of the Bubble Championship
The legacy of the 2020 NBA championship will likely continue to be a topic of discussion for years to come. Whether viewed as a more mentally grueling experience or an easier path to victory, the bubble season remains a polarizing subject among fans and analysts alike. The fact that people are still debating its validity speaks to the significance of the title in the broader context of NBA history.
As the league continues to evolve, the conversations surrounding the Lakers’ 2020 championship will serve as a reminder of the unprecedented challenges faced during that season. It also reflects the passion and investment that fans and players have in the pursuit of greatness. Whether one views the title as legitimate or not, it undoubtedly sparked conversations that keep the spirit of competition alive in the NBA.
In the ever-changing landscape of professional basketball, the Lakers’ 2020 title represents more than just a championship; it embodies the resilience of athletes and the complexities of sports in a world facing extraordinary challenges. As the NBA moves forward, the echoes of that bubble season will linger, serving as a testament to the unpredictability and drama that defines the league.