Bob Lanier remembered by Pistons greats after death: Basketball world 'hurting'

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Bob Lanier’s death sparked an outpouring of tributes from former Detroit Pistons Wednesday.

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

Isiah Thomas was among those who released statements.

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Bob Lanier (16) of the Detroit Pistons against the Boston Celtics during a game in 1976 at the Boston Garden in Boston. (Dick Raphael/NBAE via Getty Images)

"All of us who love the game of basketball are hurting with the loss of Bob Lanier. He was one of the greatest centers to play the game and one of the toughest and fiercest competitors," Thomas said. "Just as he impacted the game on the court, Bob was one of the game’s greatest ambassadors. His class and caring for others set a great example for so many to follow. I’m grateful for his friendship and mentorship as I led the Pistons as a player and later followed his footsteps as president of the Players Association."

Fellow Hall of Famer Dave Bing said he was saddened to hear about Lanier’s death.

"I have many great memories of Bob, both as a teammate and as a friend. I was lucky to have played with him as a member of the Pistons and to have shared a long-lasting friendship. Bob will be greatly missed," Bing added.

Lanier was the No. 1 overall pick of the Pistons in 1970. He played for Detroit for more than nine seasons before he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks for Kent Benson and a first-round draft pick in 1980. He played for the Bucks until the 1983-84 season.

BOB LANIER, HALL OF FAMER WHO PLAYED FOR PISTONS AND BUCKS, DEAD AT 73

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