LOS ANGELES, CA (Thursday, April 30, 2026) — The Los Angeles Lakers have officially announced that their NBA G League affiliate is relocating to the Greater Palm Springs region, where it will take on a new name: the Coachella Valley Lakers. Beginning with the 2026–27 NBA G League season, the team will play all home games at Acrisure Arena, the state‑of‑the‑art 11,000‑seat venue in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
Oak View Group Senior Partner Irving Azoff celebrated the move, noting his long‑standing relationship with the Buss family and Lakers leadership. “I am beyond thrilled to have the Coachella Valley Lakers call OVG’s Acrisure Arena their home. Go Lakers.”
Los Angeles Lakers President of Business Operations Lon Rosen emphasized the significance of expanding the franchise’s presence in the desert. “The Lakers have had a strong presence in the region for decades… We are looking forward to extending that experience and becoming a staple for Coachella Valley sports and entertainment.” Rosen highlighted Acrisure Arena’s modern, fan‑first amenities and premium facilities for players.
Season ticket deposits are now open to the public at coachellavalleylakers.com, starting at $100 per account, fully refundable at the time of seat selection.
Oak View Group Chief Business Officer Amy Latimer praised the partnership that made the relocation possible. “The addition of a G League franchise builds on the diverse event offerings at Acrisure Arena… solidifying the venue as a premier destination for sports and entertainment in the region.”
Acrisure Arena Senior Vice President John Page echoed the excitement, recognizing the support of Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, Visit Greater Palm Springs, and the Lakers organization. “We look forward to expanding upon our growing connection to the sports community with the addition of this storied franchise.”
The Lakers’ G League affiliate has a strong developmental legacy, producing standout players including current Lakers guard Austin Reaves. Over the past 20 years, the team has recorded 60 NBA call‑ups across 38 players and secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference during the 2025–26 season with a 26–10 record.
Founded in 2006 as the Los Angeles D‑Fenders, the team later became the South Bay Lakers and played in El Segundo. The Lakers were the first NBA franchise to own and operate their G League affiliate, setting a model for the league.
The newly named Coachella Valley Lakers will now join the Coachella Valley Firebirds at Acrisure Arena, further establishing the venue as a major hub for professional sports in Southern California.
For more information, visit coachellavalleylakers.com.