Los Angeles: A Hub of Legendary Athletes

Since the dawn of the 21st century, Los Angeles has produced some of the brightest stars in sports history. Icons like Kobe Bryant, Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, LeBron James, and Aaron Donald have left an enduring impact on their respective fields while representing the City of Angels.

The Dodgers Dynasty

The Los Angeles Dodgers have solidified their position in baseball history with three World Series titles within six years, with their recent victory in an epic Game 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays lingering in the minds of fans. This success has prompted a nostalgia-driven survey of the greatest athletes L.A. has seen over the last 25 years.

The Selection Process

Determining the top 10 athletes requires scrupulous consideration of personal achievements, postseason performance, national recognition, and influence in their sports. Notably, only the accomplishments of athletes during their time in Los Angeles are factored in, ensuring a fair assessment for those whose careers began before 2000.

Honorable Mentions

While trimming the list was no easy feat, several athletes just missed the cut, including:• Lonzo Ball (UCLA)• Mookie Betts (Dodgers)• Anthony Davis (Lakers)• Landon Donovan (Galaxy)• Drew Doughty (Kings)• Freddie Freeman (Dodgers)• Pau Gasol (Lakers)• Paul George (Clippers)• Ryan Getzlaf (Ducks)• Blake Griffin (Clippers)• Justin Herbert (Chargers)• Matt Kemp (Dodgers)• Anže Kopitar (Kings)• Cooper Kupp (Rams)• Matt Leinart (USC)• Kawhi Leonard (Clippers)• Lisa Leslie (Sparks)• Candace Parker (Sparks)• Chris Paul (Clippers)• Corey Perry (Ducks)• Matthew Stafford (Rams)

Number 10: Mookie Betts

Acquired by the Dodgers before the 2020 season, Mookie Betts brought a glittering resume with him, including a World Series title and multiple All-Star selections. Betts has quickly solidified his legacy in L.A. with numerous accolades, including an impressive showing in postseason games, despite a challenging playoff run this year.

Number 9: Jonathan Quick

As one of the best goalies of the last 25 years, Jonathan Quick played a vital role in the Kings’ two Stanley Cup victories. His stellar performances included leading the postseason with shutouts and securing the Conn Smythe Trophy during the Kings' first championship run.

Number 8: Reggie Bush

Dazzling during his career at USC, Reggie Bush's impact as one of college football's greatest players shaped the sport. His electric play earned him accolades, including a Heisman Trophy, which was controversially vacated but later reinstated.

Number 7: LeBron James

Despite joining the Lakers later in his career, LeBron has still made a significant mark on the franchise, leading them to a championship in the 2020 NBA season and maintaining impressive per-game averages that highlight his continued dominance in the league.

Number 6: Mike Trout

Known as one of the best players of his generation, Mike Trout's resume is filled with accolades, including several MVP awards, though injury struggles have limited his playoff appearances. His excellence on the field has set him apart in MLB history.

Number 5: Shaquille O'Neal

Though his time in L.A. was limited to the early 2000s, Shaquille O'Neal's dominance helped secure multiple championships for the Lakers, showcasing his legendary scoring and rebounding prowess.

Number 4: Aaron Donald

A standout defensive player, Aaron Donald's impact on the NFL includes multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and a pivotal role in leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory.

Number 3: Clayton Kershaw

Clayton Kershaw, the ace of the Dodgers, has been a formidable force in baseball, winning multiple Cy Young Awards and leading L.A. through numerous playoff runs, culminating in his retirement after adding yet another ring to his storied career.

Number 2: Shohei Ohtani

Currently making waves in MLB as a two-way talent, Shohei Ohtani has redefined what it means to be a baseball player. His historic achievements blend pitching and hitting, drawing comparisons to some of the greats as he excels on both fronts.

Number 1: Kobe Bryant

No discussion of Los Angeles sports is complete without the iconic Kobe Bryant. His legacy, built through multiple championships and dazzling performances, cements him as the most celebrated athlete in the city’s history, exemplifying excellence in the sport of basketball.