On Oct. 24, 2008, Citizens Business Bank Arena held its first-ever event. It was only an exhibition, but 10,316 people packed Ontario’s brand-new stadium, and the Lakers did their part, defeating Oklahoma City, 105-94.
That preseason finale led into a regular season run that saw the Lakers go on to win the 2009 NBA title. Since then, they have returned to Ontario for at least one preseason game every year — other than the lockout-shortened 2011 season.
The Lakers have treated Inland Empire residents to plenty of preseason memories, winning their first three games in Ontario on their way to a 6-3 overall record.