Voice of the Lakers Lawrence Tanter Dies After 43 Years with Team

A Legendary Voice Silenced

The Los Angeles Lakers are mourning the loss of Lawrence Tanter. The team announced on Wednesday that their legendary public address announcer has died.

Tanter retired in June at the age of 76. He stepped away from his courtside post after suffering a stroke late in the regular season. The stroke caused him to miss the final six home games of the season and the playoffs.

Before entering hospice care, Tanter shared a brief message about his career. He wrote, "It's been a blessing."

Four Decades of Lakers History

Tanter was the longest tenured public address announcer in the history of the franchise. He spent 43 years as the voice of Lakers home games, starting during the famous Showtime era of the 1980s.

During his long career, Tanter was behind the microphone for 10 Lakers championships and 16 Western Conference titles.

He was known for his unique style. Despite having a booming baritone voice and standing 6 feet 7 inches tall, Tanter chose a calm and smooth delivery. He aimed to inform the crowd rather than distract them. He also worked as a jazz radio disc jockey in Los Angeles, which influenced his cool on court style. One of his most famous signature calls was announcing the Laker Girls.

Memorable Moments and Legacy

Tanter played a memorable role during some of the franchise's most emotional moments. After Kobe Bryant died in January 2020, Tanter introduced all five starting players with Bryant's name and high school details.

Later that year, during the NBA bubble in Florida, Tanter recorded player introductions from his home studio in Porter Ranch. Those recordings were played before games, helping the team on their run to another championship.

The Chicago native originally played basketball in high school and went to the University of Dubuque on a scholarship.

Jason Barquero, the announcer for the Lakers' G League affiliate, filled in for Tanter at the end of last season. The Lakers have not yet named a permanent successor for the upcoming 2026 to 2027 season.