Hall of Fame center Bob Lanier, a former No. 1 overall pick who played 14 seasons with the Pistons (1970-1980) and Bucks (1980-84), died at the age of 73 following a "short illness," the NBA announced on Tuesday.
League commissioner Adam Silver released a statement after Lanier's death, declaring that he was "among the most talented centers in the history of the NBA." The top pick in the 1970 NBA Draft out of St. Bonaventure, Lanier earned eight All-Star selections during his career and won the 1974 All-Star Game MVP award. He averaged at least 21 points and 11 rebounds per game from 1971 to 78 with the Pistons, finishing with career averages of 20.1 points and 10.1 rebounds.
Isiah Thomas and Joe Dumars eventually passed him on Detroit's all-time scoring list, but Lanier is still the franchise's leader in points per game (22.7). He was traded to Milwaukee in February 1980, and he started for the 1982-83 and 1983-84 teams that reached the Eastern Conference Finals.
In addition to being one of the best big men of his generation, Lanier also served as the president of the National Basketball Players Association. Silver noted that he played a "key role in the negotiation of a game-changing collective bargaining agreement."
After briefly joining the Warriors' staff as an assistant and interim head coach in 1994-95, Lanier found his true calling as one of the NBA's greatest global ambassadors. Silver commended him for "traveling the world to teach the game's values and make a positive impact on young people everywhere." He helped launch the league's "Stay in School" campaign, which encouraged students to complete their high school education and contributed to other community service initiatives.
"It was a labor of love for Bob, who was one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever been around," Silver said.
NBA world reacts to Bob Lanier's death
Detroit Pistons
The Detroit #Pistons mourn the loss of Bob Lanier, one of the greatest players to ever wear the red, white and blue. We extend heartfelt condolences to Bob’s family, friends and our extended Pistons and NBA family. #RIPDobber pic.twitter.com/8WDeT3jV0y
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) May 11, 2022
Milwaukee Bucks
Bob Lanier was known throughout the community for his generosity and kindness. His legacy is forever enshrined in the rafters at Fiserv Forum.
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) May 11, 2022
We send our deepest condolences to Bob's family and friends. pic.twitter.com/gzilLACgdN
"NBA on TNT" panel (Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith)
NBA on TNT remembers Bob Lanier pic.twitter.com/ecVMTRBiwe
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 11, 2022
Bill Russell
Thank you @SHAQ @TheJetOnTNT @TurnerSportsEJ & Charles for the wonderful words and could not have said it better myself. Big Bob you will be greatly missed! RIP my friend @NBAonTNT
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) May 11, 2022
CJ McCollum
Man rest in paradise . Great dude 🙏🏽 https://t.co/wZ0A1y0Q6f
— CJ McCollum (@CJMcCollum) May 11, 2022
