Bob Lanier, Hall of Famer who played for Pistons and Bucks, dead at 73

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Bob Lanier, a Basketball Hall of Famer who was an eight-time All-Star during his 14-year career, died on Tuesday after a short illness, the NBA announced. He was 73.

The NBA said Lanier was surrounded by his family. Lanier was being treated for bladder cancer, The Athletic reported in 2019.

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Hall of Fame player and coach Bob Lanier, spokesman for NBA's TeamUp, announces that balloting has begun for the NBA All-Star Game in 2000. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma, File)

"Bob Lanier was a Hall of Fame player and among the most talented centers in the history of the NBA, but his impact on the league went far beyond what he accomplished on the court. For more than 30 years, Bob served as our global ambassador and as a special assistant to David Stern and then me, traveling the world to teach the game’s values and make a positive impact on young people everywhere," Commissioner Adam Silver said. "It was a labor of love for Bob, who was one of the kindest and most genuine people I have ever been around. His enormous influence on the NBA was also seen during his time as president of the National Basketball Players Association, where he played a key role in the negotiation of a game-changing collective bargaining agreement.

"I learned so much from Bob by simply watching how he connected with people. He was a close friend who I will miss dearly, as will so many of his colleagues across the NBA who were inspired by his generosity. We send our deepest condolences to Bob’s family and friends."

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The Bucks' Bob Lanier moves for the basket as Philadelphia