“Forever in Our Hearts”: 76-Year-Old Legendary Lakers Announcer Dies Just Months After NBA Retirement

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the longest-tenured teams in the NBA. They've been around since 1946 and have produced a plethora of legends, both on and off the court. While many basketball fans typically acknowledge the players and coaching staff, we also have to give credit to the members who help make the show behind the scenes.

One of the most important roles in a basketball game is the announcer. Also known as a barker, their job is to announce each team's lineup while reminding the audience of the violations and how many fouls each player and team has committed. Unfortunately for the Lakers, they recently lost 76-year-old announcer Lawrence Tanter.

"We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of legendary Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter," the Lakers organization wrote on social media. "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 has served as the Lakers' announcer since 1982. Fast forward 43 years, in June, LT was forced to step down from his position and retire due to significant health issues. During the 2025-26 season, in March, Tanter suffered a stroke, which ultimately led to his decision to call it quits.

As of this writing, LT's cause of death has yet to be disclosed. However, it's safe to assume that it was likely due to his declining health since suffering a stroke in March. Rest in peace, Lawrence Tanter.

Looking Back at Lakers HC Thoughts on Lawrence Tanter After His Stroke in March

Given that Lawrence Tanter has served the Los Angeles Lakers for nearly half a century, his significance to the team is significant. Even Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who played against LA for 15 years in his career, admits that Tanter's voice will forever be iconic.

Back in March, The Atheltic's Law Murray had the opportunity to ask Redick about his thoughts on Tanter after learning about his stroke at the time.

"He's an iconic voice playing against the Lakers for 15 years," Redick said in a postgame press conference. "It's almost a comfort level with him being in this arena."

Many will undoubtedly be adjusting to the new voice that will replace Tanter in the upcoming 2026-27 season. As of this writing, the Lakers have yet to find a permanent replacement for LT. However, Jason Barquero, the South Bay Lakers' announcer, will serve as the main roster's interim announcer.

This wouldn't be the first time Barquero has served the main roster. After Tanter's stroke in March, he was immediately called up to cover the remaining six home games in the regular season.