Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain and Goodrich were a Big Three to rival what Miami has, the core of a team that racked up routs on the way to an NBA-record 33 straight victories.

NPR: With Heat Rolling, Lakers Recall Their Record Run

And some of those long-ago Lakers believed their streak would be surpassed this time, with Jerry West among those saying that he believed the reigning NBA champions had a real shot at pulling it off.

WSJ: Miami Heat NBA Win Streak Ends at 27 After Loss to Chicago Bulls

And some of those Lakers believed their time would pass as Miami's streak rolled along, with Jerry West among those saying that he believed the reigning champions had a real shot at pulling it off.

NPR: Heat's Winning Streak Ends At 27 In Chicago

From basketball minds like Jerry West (wise enough to draft Magic Johnson) through Mitch Kupchak (wise enough to steal Pau Gasol from Memphis), or coaching talents such as Pat Riley through Phil Jackson who each earned the Purple and Gold 5 championship banners apiece, Dr. Jerry Buss has been the anti-Jerry Jones (owner of the Dallas Cowboys).

FORBES: Dr. Jerry Buss Remembered: Masterful Showman and Brilliant Businessman who Artfully Delegated Authority

In Hillsboro, Texas, about 15 miles from West, hotels and storefront windows displayed fliers celebrating the life of firefighter Jerry Chapman, who was killed fighting the blaze, an indication that the mourning and sense of grief go far beyond the close-knit community of West.

CNN: Texan town tries to rebuild with community, spirituality