Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl

The Lakers have become the first American sports team to amass 11,000,000 users on Facebook it was announced today. The team leads all North American sports teams with Facebook users and ranks fourth worldwide behind European soccer clubs FC Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United.

The Los Angeles Lakers joined the social media scene during the 2008-09 season creating an official Facebook page and Twitter account. The Lakers Facebook page offers fans the opportunity to view exclusive behind the scenes photos and videos of the team while also giving the fans a chance to connect with every part of the organization including the team’s community outreach efforts, the Lakers Girls and coaching staff. In addition, the team offers exclusive merchandise deals to its followers on Facebook.

“When we created our Facebook page three years ago, we did so with the intention of using the platform as a way to personally connect with our fans not only in America, but all over the world,” said Tim Harris, Lakers CMO/ Senior Vice President of Business Operations. “To know that we are accomplishing that goal is truly gratifying and we appreciate the support from our fans.”

The Lakers are on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/losangeleslakers

SOURCE: NBA.com