Legendary Lakers Public-Address Announcer Lawrence Tanter Dead At 76

Lawrence Tanter, a longtime public-address announcer for the Los Angeles Lakers, has died, according to an announcement Wednesday from the franchise. He was 76 years old.

“We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of legendary Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter,” wrote the organization in a statement that was posted to its social media accounts. “For 43 years, LT’s voice served as the soundtrack to Lakers games at the arena. He will be remembered as a cherished member of the Lakers family.” (RELATED: NASCAR Legend Darrell Waltrip Diagnosed With Progressive Brain Disease)

Working for Los Angeles since the 1980s, when the Lakers had their iconic “Showtime” era, Tanter retired from his position in June.

Late in the regular season, Tanter suffered a stroke and wasn’t able to work the last six home games, as well as the playoffs.

Lawrence Tanter, forever in our hearts as a member of the Lakers family 💜 pic.twitter.com/IOmRECqu8m

In August, just prior to Tanter entering into hospice care, he texted ESPN.

“Quote me,” wrote the Lakers icon. “‘It’s been a blessing.’”

Simply called LT — his initials — by Los Angeles fans, Tanter is the Lakers’ longest-tenured PA announcer in the history of the franchise and was praised for both his longevity and style.

Despite having a 6-foot-7 frame and a baritone voice, the presentation from Tanter had reliance on restraint. His delivery was smooth, sharing Los Angeles’ starting lineups, substitutions, fouls and score announcements with a focus on informing instead of distracting fans in attendance.

A part of the show, but never putting himself in the spotlight, Tanter’s most famous call was announcing “The Laker girlllssss” after the dance team completed a routine and ran off the court.