For decades, Lawrence Tanter was a fixture at Los Angeles Lakers home games as their public address announcer. He became known for his deep, baritone voice and unique enunciation and delivery, and his sound became the background to the overall ambience of Lakers contests.
At age 76, Tanter is reportedly retiring as the Lakers’ PA announcer. A successor hasn’t been announced yet, but there will undoubtedly be a slightly different ambiance for games at Crypto.com Arena from now on, starting next season.
Team governor Jeanie Buss released a statement regarding the decision.
“Lawrence Tanter has been an integral part of the Lakers gameday experience for more than four decades, setting the tone for countless memorable moments with his professionalism, energy and signature booming voice,” Buss said in her statement. “Since the 1980s, LT has narrated every chapter of Lakers basketball, connecting generations of fans, players, coaches and staff while becoming a trusted and unforgettable part of the Lakers experience. I am incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this franchise.”
This spring, Tanter went on the shelf due to a health issue. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, he suffered a stroke in March, rendering him unable to perform his duties.
“Tanter suffered a stroke in March, sources told ESPN, causing him to miss the Lakers’ last six home games of the regular season, plus the playoffs,” McMenamin wrote. “Tanter continues to rehab from the health setback, sources said. Jason Barquero, the P.A. announcer for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, finished the season in Tanter’s absence.”
Tanter first became the Lakers’ PA announcer in 1982, and his longevity connected him across several eras, from the Showtime era all the way to the current LeBron James/Luka Doncic regime. He will reportedly remain with the franchise as an advisor regarding the team’s game presentation.
This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Longtime Lakers PA announcer Lawrence Tanter is retiring
Reporting by Robert Marvi, LeBron Wire / LeBron Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Robert Marvi, LeBron Wire | USA TODAY Network
