Bonaventure And Nba Basketball Legend Bob Lanier Passes Away
On December 29, 2021, the world lost a basketball legend when Bob Lanier passed away at the age of 73. Lanier was a beloved figure in the NBA, known for his incredible talent on the court and his dedication to the sport. His passing is a great loss to the basketball community, and he will be deeply missed.
Early Life and Career
Lanier was born on September 10, 1948, in Buffalo, New York. He attended Bennett High School, where he began to develop his basketball skills. After high school, Lanier attended St. Bonaventure University and played for the St. Bonaventure Bonnies. He quickly became a star player, leading the team to a Final Four appearance in 1970.
After college, Lanier was drafted by the Detroit Pistons as the first overall pick in the 1970 NBA Draft. He quickly became one of the best players in the league, earning eight All-Star selections and being named to the All-NBA team twice. Lanier was known for his powerful post moves, excellent footwork, and his ability to score from anywhere on the court.
Life After Basketball
After retiring from basketball in 1984, Lanier remained involved in the sport. He worked as a color commentator for NBA games on various networks, including NBC and TNT. He also served as a special assistant to the NBA Commissioner and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.
Lanier was also known for his philanthropy work. He was involved in numerous charitable organizations throughout his life, including the Bob Lanier Diabetes Foundation, which he founded in 2002. The foundation was dedicated to helping individuals with diabetes and their families, and it provided education, support, and resources to those in need.
Tributes to Bob Lanier
Following Lanier's passing, many tributes poured in from the basketball community. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement saying, "Bob Lanier was a giant of our game, both in his talent on the court and his heart off the court. He will be deeply missed."
Former NBA player and coach Kevin McHale tweeted, "A great player, a great person, a great humanitarian. Rest In Peace Bob Lanier."
Lanier's impact on the NBA and the world of basketball cannot be overstated. His talent and dedication to the sport inspired countless players and fans, and his philanthropy work helped countless individuals in need.
Conclusion
Bob Lanier was a true legend of the game of basketball. His talent, dedication, and philanthropy work set an example for others to follow, and his impact on the sport and the community will be felt for generations to come. He will be greatly missed.
