#RIPDrBuss RT @DuranSports: At @STAPLESCenter Flags fly at half-staff after passing of @Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss pic.twitter.com/rtFyiqXB
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 18, 2013
One of the greatest owners in sports history, Dr. Jerry Buss, has died at the age of 80, according to a report from the New York Times on Monday, Feb. 18. The legendary owner of the Los Angeles Lakers lost his battle with Cancer at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center early this morning.
The Buss family confirmed his death and released a statement.
“We not only have lost our cherished father, but a beloved man of our community and a person respected by the world basketball community,” the statement would read.
“It was our father’s often stated desire and expectation that the Lakers remain in the Buss family. The Lakers have been our lives as well and we will honor his wish and do everything in our power to continue his unparalleled legacy.”
Dr. Buss was instrumental in bringing “Showtime” to Los Angeles along with 10 NBA championships throughout the years.
Laker fan-favorite Shaquille O’Neal won three titles with the Lakers and offered up his respect.
“I’m deeply saddened over da loss of the great Dr. Jerry Buss. He was a dear friend, mentor,and brilliant business mind thank u 4 8 gr8 yrs,” O’Neal stated via his personal Twitter page.
Winning five championships with the Lakers, so too did star guard Magic Johnson reflect on the passing of one of his dear friends.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the family & friends of Dr. Jerry Buss. He was a great man and an incredible friend,” said Magic.
Laker power forward and center Pau Gasol called Monday “A very sad day for all the Lakers” and offered up his condolences as well.
It is a very sad day in Laker land as condolences pour in from around the world.
FOR MORE FROM Magic Johnson, check out the Tweets below as he speaks further on the passing of Jerry Buss…
My thoughts and prayers are with the family & friends of Dr. Jerry Buss. He was a great man and an incredible friend.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
WOW! Where do I begin?! I was 19 when I first met Dr. Buss and for 34yrs he has been a father figure and best friend.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
This is a great loss for the LAKER NATION–1st the legendary Chick Hearn and now my 2nd dad, the beloved Dr. Jerry Buss. I LOVE you Dr. Buss!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
Dr. Buss was a visionary and an incredible business man with a serious passion for numbers.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
I will always remember Dr. Buss’ big smile, his love for the @Lakers, for poker & billiards, for the City of LA and for beautiful women.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
Thank you @JeanieBuss for keeping me up to date on Dr. Buss. You are like my sister. I LOVE you and hope you run the @Lakers like your dad!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
Dr. Buss’s legacy will continue on through his incredible children.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 18, 2013
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Chris Robinson can be reached at Trimond@aol.com and www.HustleBoss.com