There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live Lakers game — the crowd, the intensity, the celebrities courtside, and that unmistakable purple-and-gold pride. But with tickets often sold out or priced sky-high, many fans are tempted to turn to strangers on social media, Craigslist, or outside the arena for a deal. Here’s why that shortcut could end up being a very expensive mistake — financially and otherwise.
????️ Fake Tickets Are More Common Than You Think
Scammers have become incredibly sophisticated. From printed counterfeits to screenshots of mobile QR codes, it’s easier than ever to make a fake look legit.
You might not realize the ticket is fake until:
It won’t scan at the gate
The barcode has already been used
You’re told your seat doesn’t exist
At that point, you're out of luck — and your money.
???? There’s No Refund — And No Accountability
Unlike trusted platforms like Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, or StubHub (which offer guarantees), buying from a stranger is 100% final. Once you hand over your cash or Venmo someone, there’s no getting it back if the ticket turns out to be fake or unusable.
You’re not just losing money — you’re losing your chance to even get in the game.
????️♂️ Personal Info Risks: More Than Just Tickets
Sometimes, scams go beyond fake tickets. Scammers may:
Ask for too much personal info (name, address, payment details)
Trick you into clicking malicious links
Try to scam you again after the first deal
What started as a ticket transaction can quickly become identity theft or fraud.
???? In-Person Meetups Can Be Risky
If you're meeting a seller in person (especially around the arena), keep in mind:
Some scammers pose as fellow fans with extra tickets
Others create pressure to pay quickly, then disappear
There have been cases of people being robbed during a meetup
Never meet alone, always in a public place, and avoid bringing cash when possible.
✅ How to Buy Safely Instead
Want Lakers tickets without the risk? Use these secure methods:
Verified Resale Platforms – Use Ticketmaster, Gametime, SeatGeek, or StubHub
Loyalty Programs & Presales – Credit cards like Amex offer early access to official tickets
Fan Communities – Reddit threads, Discord servers, and Facebook groups often share face-value tickets with trusted members
Wait for Last-Minute Drops – Prices on official platforms often drop hours before the game
???? Bottom Line: A Cheap Ticket Could Cost You the Game
Scoring a deal should never come at the cost of your security, money, or game-day experience. Buying from strangers might seem convenient or budget-friendly, but the risks far outweigh the rewards.
So next time someone DMs you saying they’ve got “2 Lakers tickets for cheap,” think twice — and stick to safer, smarter ways to get in the door.