Lawrence Tanter Dies At 76 After Four Decades As Lakers PA Announcer

The Los Angeles Lakers announced Wednesday that Lawrence Tanter has died at age 76 following a stroke suffered in March. For more than four decades, the Chicago native served as the team's public address announcer, narrating key moments for legends including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, LeBron James, and Luka Doncic.

Tanter began his tenure with the franchise in 1982 at The Forum. His signature calls included "toooo many steps," "Kobeee Bryant," and "Lllaker Girlsss." He retired from game-day duties in June to transition into an advisory role for game presentation, though he remained involved until recently.

The team honored his career as the soundtrack to 10 championships. Tanter notably guided fans through a tearful pregame routine after Kobe Bryant's death in 2020 by introducing him with "Number 24." He was also inducted into the Southern California Sports Broadcaster Hall of Fame.