Lawrence Tanter, Longtime Lakers PA Announcer, Dies at 76
Tributes pour in for the beloved voice of the Los Angeles Lakers, who served the team for over four decades.
Lawrence Tanter, the longtime public address announcer for the Los Angeles Lakers, has died at the age of 76. Tanter, affectionately known as LT, retired in June after a career spanning more than 40 years with the team.
The Lakers organization announced his passing, stating, "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's tenure with the Lakers began during the team's "Showtime" era. He stepped down after suffering a stroke late in the regular season, missing the team’s final home games and the postseason. His distinctive voice was a constant presence at Lakers games, becoming as much a part of the team's identity as its players.
Among those who paid tribute to Tanter was Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss, who wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "A true original that added his unique style to Showtime. Rest in peace, LT."
Luka Dončić, a star player for the Lakers, shared the team's tribute post on his Instagram story.
Tanter was known for memorable calls, including his signature introduction of the "Laker girrlllssss." A particularly poignant moment came in January 2020, following the death of Kobe Bryant. Tanter introduced each starter with the same solemn line: "6-6, 20th year out of Lower Merion High School, Kobeeeeee Bryant!" The Lakers went on to win the championship that season in the NBA bubble.
Other notable figures, including former Laker LeBron James, have also expressed their condolences for Tanter, who was a beloved fixture in Los Angeles.