Ralph Lawler, the voice of the LA Clippers for what will soon be 40 years, is announcing his retirement following the 2018-2019 season.
The day that many LA Clippers fans never saw coming has finally arrived. Ralph Lawler, longtime broadcaster for the Clippers organization, will retire following this upcoming season.
It will be Lawler’s 40th season with the organization, all of which he has held the same position. He came to San Diego in 1978 to take over as the color commentator in the Clippers’ inaugural season, and hasn’t put the mic down since. Over the years, he has worked hard day in and day out to provide his best work every game.
“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,” Lawler stated in a press release. “The Clippers are a big part of my life’s DNA. 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.”
The Clippers also announced that they will hold the final “Ralph Lawler Night” on April 10, the final game of the season. Special bobbleheads will be given out to the first 10,000 fans, and special guests will be in attendance for the game and ceremonies.
Previous Lawler nights have commemorated the broadcaster for reaching significant milestones in his career, including one after he had called his 2,500th game.
In addition to the previous announcements, the LA Clippers official Twitter page shared an image today of what appears to be a new uniform, which features Lawler’s signature and title.
For Ralph. pic.twitter.com/ANBXhG9lxW
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) September 12, 2018
As more details surface, Clipperholics will report on what could be this season’s City Edition uniform.
Although we’ve always appreciated Lawler’s work and dedication to this team, we can never be too gracious. He loves us just as much as we do him, and replacing him will be no easy task.