Legendary Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter has passed away, as announced by the team on Wednesday evening.
He was 76 years old.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of legendary Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter,” the Lakers stated. “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 started his role as the Lakers’ P.A. announcer during the 1982-83 season and his distinctive smooth delivery and rich baritone voice became integral to the experience at home games for more than four decades.
During Tanter’s time with the franchise, the Lakers secured 10 NBA championships.
“A true original that added his unique style to Showtime,” said Jeanie Buss, Lakers governor and co-owner. “Rest in peace, LT.”
Tanter retired as the Lakers’ P.A. announcer in June, marking the conclusion of a 43-season tenure. The team indicated that he would remain involved as a special advisor for game presentation thereafter.
He holds the record as the longest-serving 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 reflected in June. “Since the 1980s, LT has narrated every chapter of Lakers basketball, connecting generations of fans, players, coaches, and staff, becoming an unforgettable part of the Lakers experience. I am incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this franchise.”
Tanter missed the last six regular season home games and the playoffs following a health issue.
Reports indicated that Tanter suffered a stroke in March.
The team has not announced his successor since his retirement.
Jason Barquero, the P.A. announcer for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, filled in for Tanter at the end of the 2025-26 season.
“He’s an iconic voice,” Lakers coach JJ Redick mentioned in March, referring to Tanter’s significance and the comfort his presence brought to the arena.
Tanter was born in Chicago in 1949.
Standing at 6-foot-7, he played forward for his high school basketball team and received a scholarship to the University of Dubuque.
He relocated to Southern California in the early 1970s, where he worked at radio station KJLH before eventually joining the Lakers.
