Lakers add Abdul-Jabbar to staff

El Segundo, CA (Basketball News) - Former Los Angeles Laker great Kareem Abdul- Jabbar was hired Friday as the team’s special assistant coach.

"We are pleased to welcome Kareem back to the organization." said general manger Mitch Kupchak. "Kareem was one of the best centers to ever play the game. His skills and talent on the court were truly remarkable and we look forward to having Kareem help our big men develop these skills and tutor them on what it takes to be a successful player in this league."

Abdul-Jabbar will work with the Lakers players throughout the year and will take over his new role immediately.

A member of the Lakers from 1975-1989, the 7-2 Abdul-Jabbar ended his career as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (38,287), which is still No. 1 all-time.

Abdul-Jabbar, who was a 20-year veteran that also included a six-year stint with Milwaukee, won six NBA titles and is a six-time MVP. He was also named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times.