When the news broke this morning that Dr. Buss passed away at 5:55am, there was an immediate feeling of sadness throughout the Lakers community. It was hard to believe that the heart and soul of this Lakers organization, the man that paved the way for 10 Lakers championships, would never step foot at a Lakers game, ever again. At the Lakers press conference this afternoon, Lakers spokesman John Black shared this same sentiment.
“The feeling is immense sadness and also an appreciation they got to know him and be a part of this organization” – John Black on reactions to Dr. Buss’s passing
Family spokesman, Bob Steiner, shared only positive memories of Dr. Buss, whom he described as having a great impact on anybody associated with the NBA since 1980. Most of his stories, in some way, showed Dr. Buss’s undying love for fans and his ability to make anyone feel like they were the most important person in the room. This story in particular placed an immediate smile on everyone’s face in the closely knit, and emotional media gathering.
“If you were ever at a hockey game and you sat opposite his booth, chances are he’d buy you a beer – the whole section.”
Steiner went on to explain that Dr. Buss would choose the worst seat possible at The Forum because “those were his kind of fans.” He also went on to quote James Worthy to describe Dr. Buss in a few simple words.
“He was a very cool guy.”
Although it’s hard to think we’ll never witness Dr. Buss at another Lakers game, his legacy will forever live on. His wish for the Lakers organization to remain a part of the Buss family will continue. Lakers spokesman John Black explained that the entity will not be split up, and no changes will be expected in the future.
“The future of the organization will remain unchanged. Dr. Buss has set it up years in advance, he planned for continuation of the team to remain with the family. The past several years Jim Buss has been running the basketball operations, working in conjunction with our general manager Mitch Kupchak, that will continue. Jeanie Buss has been running the business operations for over 15 years, that will continue.”
Steiner also left us with some of the greatest advice that Dr. Buss passed on to him.
“If you do your research properly, believe your conclusions.”
A motto that Dr. Buss lived by, and a motto that we all hope his children will carry on throughout the future of this organization.
VIDEO: Breaking News – Lakers Owner Dr. Buss Has Passed Away
