The Evolution of Crypto.com Arena: A Journey Through Time

The Crypto.com Arena, a venue that has hosted numerous memorable events and has become synonymous with sports and entertainment in Los Angeles, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. But what was Crypto.com Arena before it became the iconic sports stadium it is today? This article delves into the rich history of the venue, exploring its various iterations and the factors that led to its transformation.

The Beginnings: The Forum

The Crypto.com Arena's history can be traced back to 1967, when it was originally constructed as the Forum. Located in Inglewood, California, the Forum was designed by architect William H. McCallum and was initially intended to be a multi-purpose arena that would cater to both sports and entertainment. The venue was completed at a cost of $12.5 million and opened on January 30, 1967, with a concert by the Beach Boys.

The Forum quickly gained popularity as a premier entertainment venue, hosting a wide array of events, from concerts to sporting events, and even rodeos. Over the years, it became one of the most famous venues in the United States, hosting acts such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Elton John, among others. Additionally, it served as the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Kings during the 1960s and 1970s.

A New Era: The Great Western Forum

In 1982, the Forum underwent a major renovation, which resulted in it being renamed the Great Western Forum. The renovations included the addition of a second floor, which increased seating capacity to 18,500. The new venue continued to be a popular destination for sports and entertainment events, hosting the Los Angeles Rams (NFL) from 1982 to 1994.

The Great Western Forum also became a focal point for the local community, hosting numerous charity events and providing a venue for high school sports. However, by the early 2000s, the venue began to show its age, and the Lakers and Kings sought a new home that could better accommodate their growing fan base.

A New Home: Staples Center

In 1999, the Great Western Forum was renamed Staples Center to reflect the naming rights sponsorship by the Staples office supply company. The new venue was constructed adjacent to the Forum and opened on November 30, 1999, with a game between the Lakers and the Clippers. The Staples Center quickly established itself as a top-tier sports and entertainment venue, hosting the Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and the Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA).

The Transformation: Crypto.com Arena

In 2017, the venue was renamed again, this time to Crypto.com Arena, as part of a naming rights sponsorship deal with the cryptocurrency exchange of the same name. The renaming marked a new chapter in the venue's history, as it continued to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of entertainment.

The Crypto.com Arena has remained a staple in the Los Angeles sports and entertainment scene, hosting events such as concerts, sports games, and special events. The venue has also become a symbol of innovation, as it continues to embrace new technologies and trends in the industry.

FAQs

1. What was the original capacity of the Forum when it was built in 1967?

The original capacity of the Forum was 14,516.

2. Which two teams shared the Forum as their home during the 1960s and 1970s?

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Kings shared the Forum during those years.

3. How many seats were added when the Great Western Forum was renovated in 1982?

The renovation added 4,384 seats, bringing the total capacity to 18,500.

4. Which team moved out of the Great Western Forum in 1994?

The Los Angeles Rams moved out of the Great Western Forum in 1994.

5. What is the total capacity of the Crypto.com Arena today?

The Crypto.com Arena has a seating capacity of 19,067 for most events.