The Laker Girls are one of the most iconic cheer and dance teams in all of sports, right up there on the level of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.
It’s a major accomplishment for a woman to perform for either squad. Tyra Thompson has the unique experience of being a member of both teams. A former Cowboys cheerleader, Thompson is now in her first season with the Laker Girls.
During her days as a student at Grand Canyon University, Thompson was part of the Antelopes’ dance team. She said her career goals were to “dance for Lakers or the Golden State Warriors,” so she’s fulfilling a dream.
“From the field to the court✨•••Continuing my career with such an iconic team is more than I could have ever imagined! I’m so excited for this upcoming season with the @lakergirls Here’s to the best chapter yet!LG4L💜⭐️#lakergirls #lakers #lakernation #nba #dancer,” Thompson wrote on Instagram in the fall, announcing her new position.
Thompson actually retired from cheerleading for the Cowboys prior to the 2023 season, but returned to wear the uniform during the year before hanging up her blue-and-white pom-poms for good.
Last June, she sent well-wishes to the next crop of Dallas cheerleaders as they prepared for their final auditions.
good luck to all the girls trying out today, whether it is your first year, last year, or any year in between savor every second of your experience. when this chapter of your life comes to a close it is certain you WILL miss it! my one piece of advice going into today and possibly your season is never lose sight of who you are. you are not defined by the uniform you wear or other peoples worldly opinions of you (positive or negative), the one and only who matters is God, and I promise he is proud of what you have done and have yet to accomplish. sending all my love and prayers to this years finals contestants!
Thompson has also said in the past she wants to pursue a career in sports broadcasting after her cheer and dance career is over, so we’ll see if that is in the cards for her down the road.
In the meantime, the rest of the 2024-25 NBA season with the Laker Girls awaits.
Related: Dallas Cowboys Rookie Cheerleaders Turn Heads With Offseason Photo