The Los Angeles Lakers announced Lawrence Tanter’s tenure as the team’s public address announcer for home games has come to an end after 43 seasons. Tanter is going to remain involved with the organization, however, in the role of special advisor for game presentation.
Tanter missed the Lakers’ final six home games of the 2025-26 regular season and the entire playoffs. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, that was due to suffering a stroke.
Jason Barquero, public address announcer of the Lakers’ G League affiliate, filled in during Tanter’s absence. It’s not yet clear if Barquero will continue in that role as the storied franchise did not name him — nor anyone else — as the successor.
It’s presumed the Lakers will embark on a search to find a new voice for Crypto.com Arena that will resonate with fans considering the big shoes to fill.
“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,” Lakers governor Jeanie Buss said in a statement.
“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.”
Lawrence Tanter’s new role with Lakers
Under the newly-created special advisor for game presentation role, Tanter is expected to lend his unparalleled announcing expertise and institutional knowledge to help shape the future of the Lakers home game experience.
It’s a fitting change for Tanter, whose voice and pitch are unmistakable. He was the longest-tenured Lakers public address announcer, beginning in 1982. He became renowned for announcing “The Laker girlllsssss” following the completion of a dance routine.
Other highlights include paying respect to Kobe Bryant in the Lakers’ first game after his tragic passing by announcing each of the team’s starters that night as, “6-6, 20th year out of Lower Merion High School, Kob-eeee Bryant!” Tanter also had an electric introduction for LeBron James’ first home game with the team.
Tanter was a model of consistency throughout his career, and didn’t miss any games from 1997 through April 2018. It was a span of more than 200 games.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
