RIP: A huge loss for the NBA! The legendary voice of the Lakers has passed away

Los Angeles is mourning.

Details: Lawrence Tanter, the longtime arena announcer for the Los Angeles Lakers, has died at the age of 76. The Lakers’ public relations department officially announced the passing of the legendary club figure. Tanter retired following the 2025/26 season, having spent more than four decades behind the microphone.

Lawrence Tanter began announcing Lakers home games in 1982. His deep, composed baritone and concise delivery became the signature soundtrack of the Californians’ home games, first at the iconic Forum in Inglewood and later at Staples Center. Tanter announced lineups and key moments during the Showtime era of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant’s championship three-peat, as well as the triumphs of the Pau Gasol and LeBron James eras.

Unlike most modern announcers, who favor an emotional and boisterous approach, Tanter consistently maintained an elegant, formal and respectful style, earning the recognition and respect of the entire basketball world.

It is worth noting that during Lawrence Tanter’s 44 years with the Lakers, the club won 10 NBA championships, while the announcer himself called thousands of games and became an integral part of the organization’s history.

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