Bob Lanier (Part 1)

Robert Jerry Lanier Jr. was a prominent figure in American professional basketball, known for his prowess as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on September 10, 1948, Lanier made significant contributions to both the Detroit Pistons and the Milwaukee Bucks during his career.
Despite facing persistent knee injuries throughout his playing years, Lanier's talent and dedication propelled him to numerous accolades. He participated in eight NBA All-Star Games and was recognized as the Most Valuable Player of the 1974 game, showcasing his exceptional skills on the court.


Lanier's impact extended beyond his individual achievements. His jersey number, No. 16, was retired by both the Pistons and the Bucks, honoring his lasting legacy with both franchises. Additionally, St. Bonaventure University, where Lanier played college basketball, retired his No. 31 jersey, highlighting his contributions to the university's basketball program.
Following his retirement from playing, Lanier transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors. He also briefly assumed the role of interim head coach for the team. Beyond coaching, Lanier remained involved in the basketball community as an NBA Cares Global Ambassador, using his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Lanier's remarkable career and enduring influence on the sport earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing his status as one of basketball's most revered figures. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.


Robert Jerry Lanier Jr. was born on September 10, 1948, in Buffalo, New York, to Robert Sr. and Nannette Lanier. Raised in the Seventh-day Adventist Church by his mother, Lanier faced early challenges in pursuing his passion for basketball.
Despite his natural athleticism, Lanier encountered setbacks in his early attempts to join basketball teams. Initially rejected due to his perceived lack of agility and oversized feet, Lanier's determination remained unshaken. It wasn't until his junior year at Bennett High School, under the guidance of coach Fred Schwepker, that Lanier finally made the team. Excelling on the court, he quickly proved his worth, averaging impressive point totals and earning recognition on the All-City and All-Western New York State teams.


During his senior year, Lanier further solidified his basketball prowess, leading Bennett to consecutive Buffalo city titles while continuing to excel individually. His outstanding performance caught the attention of college recruiters from over 100 universities. Despite numerous offers, Lanier ultimately chose to attend St. Bonaventure University, a decision influenced by its proximity to his family and the opportunity for them to watch him play regularly.
Under the guidance of coach Larry Weise at St. Bonaventure, Lanier continued to shine on the basketball court, further cementing his legacy as one of the region's most talented players. His remarkable high school career was commemorated in 2009 when he was named to the All-time All-Western New York team, alongside other distinguished basketball figures.
Throughout his journey from humble beginnings in Buffalo to collegiate stardom, Lanier's dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence paved the way for his future success in the world of basketball.


Robert Jerry Lanier Jr. continued to excel during his collegiate career at St. Bonaventure University, where he earned numerous accolades and solidified his status as one of the nation's top basketball talents.
As a three-time Converse All-America selection from 1968 to 1970, Lanier showcased his exceptional skills and versatility on the court, garnering recognition as one of the country's premier collegiate players.
In his senior year in 1970, Lanier led St. Bonaventure to the NCAA Final Four, a remarkable achievement that underscored his leadership and impact on the team's success. However, his journey to the national semifinals was marred by an unfortunate injury during the regional championship game, where he collided with Villanova's Chris Ford and suffered a knee injury. Despite the setback, Lanier's contributions to St. Bonaventure's remarkable season were undeniable.


Lanier's stellar performance throughout the season earned him prestigious awards, including the Coach and Athlete Magazine Player of the Year and the Eastern College Athletic Conference's Player of the Year honors. These accolades recognized his outstanding achievements and significant impact on collegiate basketball during his senior campaign.
In recognition of Lanier's lasting legacy and contributions to St. Bonaventure University, the institution honored him by naming their basketball court the "Bob Lanier Court" in 2007, a fitting tribute to one of the school's greatest basketball icons.

References

1.  Aschburner, Steve (September 10, 2018). "NBA legend Bob Lanier reflects on career, current game and impact off floor". National Basketball Association. Retrieved July 3, 2023.
2. ^ Lombardo, John (February 22, 2016). "Bob Lanier, the NBA's inside man". Sports Business Journal. Retrieved July 3, 2023.
3. "Detroit Pistons Legend Bob Lanier". Detroit Pistons.
4. "Legends profile: Bob Lanier". NBA.com.
5. ^ "Bennett Coach Inspired Lanier: NBA Great Points to Mentor", The Buffalo News, February 16, 1995, archived from the original on March 29, 2015
6. Roth, Leo (March 12, 2018). "ER's Larry Weise on 1970 Bonnies: 'We knew we were good enough to win the championship'". Democrat and Chronicle.
7. ^ McShea, Keith (March 7, 2009). "All-time All-WNY team: How'd we do?". The Buffalo News. ProQuest 381940241. Retrieved February 9, 2024. First team Curtis Aiken, Bennett 1981–82, '82–83 Paul Harris, Niagara Falls, 2003–04, '04–05 Christian Laettner, Nichols 1986–87, '87–88 Bob Lanier, Bennett 1965–66 Mel Montgomery, Kensington 1969–70, '70–71
8. ^ McShea, Keith (March 7, 2009). "WNY's all-time high school basketball team". McClatchy-Tribune Business News. ProQuest 464904948. Retrieved February 9, 2024. Our staff has been banging under the boards for more than a month, picking our all-decade teams as we built toward this point, the final shot of our celebration of the 50th anniversary of All-WNY basketball. . .There were letters, e-mails, voice mails, blog comments and phone calls. There were opinions from coaches, teammates, fathers, brothers, sons and of course fans.
9. ^ "Bob Lanier Chosen ECAC Player Of Year". The Times Record. March 19, 1970. p. 33. Retrieved May 11, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
10. a b "1967–68 St. Bonaventure Bonnies Roster and Stats". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
11. ^ "Bob Lanier 1967–68 Game Log". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
12. a b c "NCAA College Basketball AP All-America Teams". Basketball-Reference.com. Archived from the original on September 4, 2011. Retrieved March 3, 2019.
13. ^ "1968–69 St. Bonaventure Bonnies Schedule and Results". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
14. ^ "Bob Lanier 1969–70 Game Log". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
15. ^ "1969–70 St. Bonaventure Bonnies Roster and Stats". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.