April 04--The Clippers announced they were naming the media and team member entrance at Staples Center after Ralph Lawler as part of daylong festivities to honor the longtime broadcaster.
They also presented Lawler with a coin commemorating the day last month he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Clippers players tried to mimic Lawler's signature "Bingo!" and "Oh me, oh my" calls during a scoreboard segment, with sometimes comic results.
Lawler, who will turn 78 this month, has said he will return next season, his 38th with the team.
Farewell to Kobe Bryant
Rivers joked that the Clippers would hold a parade for the final time they host Kobe Bryant on Tuesday because they're thrilled he's leaving the NBA after 20 seasons.
"I'll be very happy when Kobe retires," said Rivers, whose Boston Celtics split two NBA Finals against Bryant's Lakers. "He's inflicted pain on me. I'm looking forward to it. Everyone else is lying. They're saying they want Kobe to keep playing. That's not true."
The Lakers and Clippers will also play Wednesday in a designated Lakers home game, giving them one final game against Bryant unless he is unable to participate.
"On a serious note, it will be different not having him," Rivers said. "My son Spencer was 1 when he came into the league and he's still playing. It's just remarkable how long he's played, how well he's played. That part you'll miss seeing. I won't actually miss him playing. I'm tired of seeing him play. He's played too well."
Etc.
Clippers veteran forward Paul Pierce sat out a third consecutive game because of the sprained right ankle he suffered March 28 against the Celtics. ... Clippers forward Jeff Green suffered a cut on his left hand when he hit the court but is not expected to sit out any games.
