Clippers announcer Ralph Lawler to retire at end of season

Los Angeles sports fans have been spoiled by having some of broadcasting's iconic announcers -- Vin Scully, Chick Hearn, Bob Miller, Dick Enberg -- call the games of the region's various local teams. All of those previously-mentioned legends have either passed on or retired, and unfortunately, another star is set to join their ranks.

Entering his 40th season as the “Voice of the Clippers,” broadcaster Ralph Lawler has announced his plan to retire following the conclusion of the 2018-19 season.

Lawler has long been one of the most underrated announcers in sports, as he has managed to consistently make games exciting for the fans despite many years in which the Clippers put an absolutely horrific product on the court.  Lawler accomplished this difficult feat with his enthusiasm, humor, and signature catchphrases.

“My wife Jo and I have grappled with this decision annually for 15 years. I now realize that I have spent half of my 80 years as a part of this team. The Clippers are a big part of my life’s DNA,” said Lawler. “Yet, it is important that we have some ‘life after basketball.’ The current ownership and management team has been so supportive, and we are forever grateful for our years with the Clippers. I cannot express how much I appreciate the fans. I am looking forward to thanking as many of them as possible in person during this final season."

Lawler, 80, joined the then San Diego Clippers in the team’s first year in California, 1978, where he spent six years before moving with the Clippers to Los Angeles.  He has called more than 3,100 games, and he is one of a very few announcers who has called games in each of the four major U.S. Sports Leagues: NFL (Chargers), MLB (Phillies), NHL (Flyers), and NBA (Clippers and 76ers).

“Ralph Lawler isn’t just the voice of the team, he has been the heart and soul of the Clippers,” said Clippers Chairman Steve Ballmer. “Ralph has lived every single moment with this team and been an essential connection between us and our fans, who rightfully adore him. We will treasure every moment with Ralph and his wife Jo this season, and miss him incredibly next year. I’m looking forward to celebrating Ralph and his legacy, and want to sincerely thank him for everything that he has done for and meant to this team. His will be large shoes to fill.”

Lawler’s commitment to his craft has been recognized with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, three Emmys, a Telly Award, and inductions into the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the California Sports Hall of Fame.

Over the past decades he has invented numerous “Lawler-isms” that have become a fixture in Clippers broadcasts and across the NBA.  Fans watching Clippers games expect to hear “Bingo” for made three-pointers, or “Oh Me, Oh My” after highlight plays. Throughout the league, his colleagues frequently reference “Lawler’s Law,” which states that the team that reaches 100 points first will win the game.

“The ‘Voice of the Clippers’ for 40 seasons and one of the league’s longest-tenured broadcasters, Ralph has called some of the most iconic moments in Clippers’ and NBA history,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “His distinct broadcasting style, highlighted by Lawler’s Law and other hallmark ‘Lawler-isms’, has earned him respect and admiration from NBA fans everywhere.  We wish Ralph continued success in his final NBA season and thank him for his incredible commitment and dedication to NBA basketball.”

Lawler’s closest friends and colleagues from across his career will be joining him as his broadcast partner for special games throughout the season, with longtime broadcast partner Bill Walton headlining the list.

The Clippers will conclude the regular season by hosting Ralph Lawler Night at Staples Center on Wednesday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. vs. the Utah Jazz. The first 10,000 fans at the game will receive Ralph Lawler bobbleheads and the evening will feature special guests, ceremonies and a celebration of Lawler’s career.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services