Lawrence Tanter, Lakers' Longtime PA Announcer, Dies at 76
Tanter's voice was a fixture at Lakers games for 43 seasons, winning 10 NBA championships during his tenure.
Lawrence Tanter, the longtime public address announcer for the Los Angeles Lakers, has died. He was 76.
The franchise announced his passing on Wednesday night, marking the end of an era for a voice that had been synonymous with Lakers basketball for over four decades.
"We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of legendary Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter,” the Lakers said in a statement. “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."
Tanter began his career with the Lakers during the 1982-83 season, establishing a signature smooth delivery and baritone voice that became a consistent presence at home games. During his 43-year tenure, the Lakers captured 10 NBA championships.
Lakers governor and co-owner Jeanie Buss expressed her condolences, calling Tanter "a true original that added his unique style to Showtime." She added, “Rest in peace, LT.”
Tanter had officially retired as the Lakers’ P.A. announcer in June, concluding his 43-season run. At the time of his retirement, the team stated he would continue to work with the franchise as a special advisor for game presentation. He held the distinction of being the longest-tenured P.A. announcer in the team’s history.
"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 a statement at the time of his retirement. “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.”
In the latter part of the 2025-26 season, Tanter missed the Lakers’ final six regular season home games and the playoffs due to a health setback. ESPN reported that Tanter had suffered a stroke in March.
Jason Barquero, the P.A. announcer for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, stepped in to handle announcing duties for the remainder of the season.
Lakers coach JJ Redick commented on Tanter's absence in March, noting his iconic voice and the sense of comfort it provided. "He’s an iconic voice,” Redick said. “It’s almost a comfort level with him being in this arena."
Tanter was born in Chicago in 1949. Standing at 6-foot-7, he played forward on his high school basketball team and earned a scholarship to play at the University of Dubuque. He relocated to Southern California in the early 1970s before working at radio station KJLH, and eventually joined the Lakers organization.