Lawrence Tanter, the public address announcer whose smooth baritone voice became synonymous with Lakers games for more than four decades, died Wednesday at 76. The team announced his passing, noting the loss of a cherished member of the Lakers family.
Tanter's iconic voice was the soundtrack to numerous eras of Lakers basketball, narrating chapters for stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson, then later Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, and more recently, LeBron James and Luka Doncic. He began his tenure with the team in 1982, when the Lakers played at the Forum.
After a stroke in March forced his retirement from game-day duties, Tanter transitioned into an advisory role with the team in June. The Lakers stated, "For 43 years, LT’s voice served as the soundtrack to Lakers games at the arena."
His signature calls, such as "toooo many steps," "Kobeee Bryant," and "Lllaker Girlsss," were delivered with a calm, distinctive style. Tanter’s approach was never boastful or over the top, instead providing an "ideal soundtrack" for a franchise that often embodied old Hollywood glamour. Lakers governor Jeanie Buss acknowledged this unique contribution, writing on X, "A true original that added his unique style to Showtime."
Beyond the celebrations of 10 championships during his time with the team, Tanter also offered comfort during difficult moments. Following the death of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant in 2020, Tanter guided a sold-out crowd through a tearful pregame routine. He introduced the Lakers’ starters with a familiar cadence, including the resonant call for "Number 24, 6-6, 20th year out of Lower Merion High School, Kobeeee Bryant."
Tanter, who stood 6-foot-7, was known for greeting everyone with a kind smile and warm conversation. His dedication and unique style earned him induction into the Southern California Sports Broadcaster Hall of Fame.
The news prompted reactions from across the Lakers community. Former Lakers center and current team broadcaster Mychal Thompson suggested on X, "I hope the team wears an LT patch this season." Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist and longtime Lakers fan Flea shared on X that Tanter "was a great vibe dude," a music lover, and "the best announcer in the NBA." Flea added that no other arena announcer he encountered "came close."
Tanter maintained his cool and collected approach throughout his career. As he told Bill Plaschke in June, he "never tried to be a cheerleader." Upon announcing his retirement, Tanter reflected on his long career, stating, "It’s been a great run. I’ve been blessed."
