Lakers Give Pau Gasol Welcome Back Reception

The applause swelled as fans at Staples Center rose to their feet Thursday, generously welcoming back Pau Gasol and the memories of better times, of moments such as the one shown on the video board of Gasol leaning on the NBA championship trophy after one of the two titles he helped the Lakers win in his seven seasons here.

Gasol, touched by the reception, clapped and aimed two thumbs-up toward the crowd. Many fans wore T-shirts the Lakers gave them as they entered imprinted with the words “Thanks Pau” on the front and a list of his Lakers statistics on the back.

Gasol said he expected it to be emotional for him as he played in a “special building” in front of some of the many friends he made here.

via Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times