Lakers Legend Retires
Lakers Public Address Announcer Lawrence Tanter Announces Retirement After 43 Seasons
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The Los Angeles Lakers announced Tuesday that Lawrence Tanter is retiring as their public address announcer after 43 seasons behind the microphone Associated Press. His departure ends the longest run by a PA announcer in franchise history, stretching from the 1982-83 "Showtime" era all the way to 2026.
Tanter, 76, will not walk away entirely. The Lakers are moving him into a new role as Special Advisor for Game Presentation Associated Press. But his voice — a deep, measured bass that became one of the most recognizable sounds in Los Angeles — will no longer fill Crypto.com Arena on game nights.
A Health Scare Triggered the Sudden Exit
Tanter did not finish the 2025-26 season at the microphone. On March 27, 2026, he was a late scratch for a home game against the Brooklyn Nets Los Angeles Times. The team cited a "health matter." Sources not authorized to speak publicly told Los Angeles Times that Tanter had suffered a stroke. He never returned for the remainder of the regular season or the playoffs.
South Bay Lakers announcer Jason Barquero filled in during Tanter's absence Los Angeles Times. Tanter missed the entire postseason, which ended with a second-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Fans noticed the two-month silence before today's official announcement confirmed his retirement.
43 Seasons, 10 Championships, One Iconic Voice
Tanter started with the Lakers in 1982. Over 43 seasons, he announced 10 NBA championships — from the 1985 title to the 2020 championship. He worked three different arenas: The Forum, Staples Center, and Crypto.com Arena. No other PA announcer in Lakers history comes close to that record Associated Press.
His style was unlike most modern announcers. He used a low-key, rhythmic delivery instead of the high-energy shout that most arenas use today. His drawn-out call of "Llllllaaker Girls" became a cultural staple in Los Angeles. In early 2025, he told the Crypto.com Arena crowd after a LeBron James milestone, "Ladies and gentlemen, we all have just witnessed history" Associated Press.
Jeanie Buss Praises 'Every Chapter' of Lakers History
Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss issued a warm statement Tuesday. "LT has narrated every chapter of Lakers basketball," she said, "becoming a trusted and unforgettable part of the Lakers experience. I am incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this franchise" Associated Press. The team's move to put him in an advisory role suggests they want to keep his knowledge close as they search for a permanent replacement.
Among Tanter's most remembered moments was January 31, 2020, the night after Kobe Bryant's death. He introduced every Lakers starter that night as "Number 8, Kobe Bryant" Associated Press. The arena fell silent. It became one of the most talked-about tributes in NBA history.
Lakers Face a New Sound and an Uncertain Identity
Tanter is one of the last direct links to the Dr. Jerry Buss era. His retirement adds to a growing sense among long-time fans that the Lakers' identity is shifting fast. Color commentator Stu Lantz and LeBron James are also potentially near the end of their runs with the franchise Los Angeles Times. Jason Barquero is the likely successor at the microphone.
Sports historians note that Tanter's understated style gave the Lakers a unique home-court feel that stood apart from other NBA arenas. His advisory role may help vet his replacement and preserve some of that sound. The team is also expected to hold a "Lawrence Tanter Night" during the 2026-27 season to honor his legacy Los Angeles Times.
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