Detroit Pistons to honor legacy of Bob Lanier throughout 2022-23 NBA season (2024)

Pistons to wear No. 16 in a commemorative stripe on jerseys

Karen Drew, Anchor/Reporter

Brandon Carr, Digital Content Producer

DETROIT – The Detroit Pistons will honor the legacy of the late Bob Lanier throughout the 2022-23 NBA season. Lanier was one of the team’s all-time great players.

Players will be seen wearing No. 16 in a commemorative stripe on the upper-right section of their jerseys throughout the season.

On Jan. 23, at Little Caesars Arena, the Pistons will hold Bob Lanier tribute night as they welcome in his former team, the Milwaukee Bucks.

Lanier was drafted out of St. Bonaventure by the Pistons with the No. 1 overall selection in the 1970 NBA Draft. He soon established himself as one of the greatest centers in NBA history.

He was an eight-time NBA all-star, seven of which came in the Pistons uniform, where he spent 10 of his 14 seasons. He was named the most valuable player in the 1974 NBA All-Star game.

Lanier ranks as the team’s all-time leader in scoring average with 22.7 points per game and double-doubles with 442. He ranks among career leaders in franchise history in numerous total categories, including third in points with 15,488, third in rebounds with 8,063, second in field goals with 6,276, fourth in blocks with 859, and seventh in games played with 681.

Lanier passed away in May at the age of 73.

Copyright 2022 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Authors:
Karen Drew

Karen Drew is the anchor of Local 4 News First at 4, weekdays at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. She is also an award-winning investigative reporter.

Brandon Carr

Brandon Carr is a digital content producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with WDIV Local 4 since November 2021. Brandon is the 2015 Solomon Kinloch Humanitarian award recipient for Community Service.

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As an avid sports enthusiast with a deep knowledge of basketball history and the NBA, I can attest to the significance of honoring legends within the sport. In this case, the Detroit Pistons' decision to pay tribute to the late Bob Lanier during the 2022-23 NBA season is a commendable gesture, highlighting the team's recognition of Lanier's contributions to their legacy.

Bob Lanier, drafted as the first overall selection by the Pistons in the 1970 NBA Draft, played a pivotal role in establishing himself as one of the greatest centers in NBA history. His impact was not only felt during his illustrious career but continues to be acknowledged even after his passing in May at the age of 73.

The use of the No. 16 on a commemorative stripe on the upper-right section of the players' jerseys serves as a visual representation of the tribute to Lanier throughout the season. This symbolizes the team's respect and remembrance of his legacy, ensuring that his influence on the Pistons is forever etched into the team's narrative.

The specific date, January 23, at Little Caesars Arena, holds special significance as the Pistons plan to host the Milwaukee Bucks, Lanier's former team, on Bob Lanier tribute night. This event not only allows fans to reflect on Lanier's contributions but also creates a platform for both teams to come together in honoring a basketball icon.

Bob Lanier's achievements as an eight-time NBA All-Star, with seven appearances in the Pistons uniform, and his recognition as the Most Valuable Player in the 1974 NBA All-Star game showcase his excellence on the court. His statistical dominance, being the team's all-time leader in scoring average, double-doubles, and ranking high in various franchise categories, further solidifies his status as a Pistons legend.

The article provides key statistical insights into Lanier's career, emphasizing his impact on the Pistons' history. He leads the team in scoring average, double-doubles, and holds notable positions in points, rebounds, field goals, blocks, and games played in the franchise's record books.

In conclusion, the Detroit Pistons' decision to honor Bob Lanier is a fitting tribute to a basketball icon, and the details presented in the article showcase the team's commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of one of their all-time greats. The use of No. 16 on jerseys, the planned tribute night, and the statistical achievements highlighted in the article collectively contribute to a comprehensive homage to Bob Lanier's enduring influence on the Detroit Pistons.

Detroit Pistons to honor legacy of Bob Lanier throughout 2022-23 NBA season (2024)

FAQs

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A small No. 16 patch adorns Pistons jerseys this season, and it was fitting the Bucks were the opponent since that's where Lanier spent the latter years of his playing career.

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Dave DeBusschere198368.9
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Detroit Pistons6424.0
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