Colleagues speak out on the passing of Jerry Buss

Lakers owner Jerry Buss died Monday morning.

By Eric Pincus

Feb. 18, 2013 12 AM PT

The loss of Jerry Buss has already been felt far and wide.

“The NBA has lost a visionary owner whose influence on our league is incalculable and will be felt for decades to come,” said NBA Commissioner David Stern in a prepared statement. “More importantly, we have lost a dear and valued friend. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”

“Jerry Buss was a visionary, a winner and a dear friend,” said Clippers’ owner Donald T. Sterling, also in a statement. “Our city will miss him, our league will miss him and the Sterling family will truly miss him.”

PHOTOS: Jerry Buss through the years

Two additional Pacific Division rivals voiced their support as well.

“On behalf of the entire Phoenix Suns organization, our thoughts and prayers are with the Buss family,” said Phoenix Suns Managing Partner Robert Sarver. “As an NBA owner, Dr. Buss was in a league of his own. I loved listening to his stories and appreciated his willingness to always engage in discussion and offer me positive encouragement and advice. He will be greatly missed.”

“On behalf of the Golden State Warriors organization, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the entire Buss family,” said Golden State Warriors Co-Executive chairmen Joe Lacob and Peter Guber. “Dr. Buss set an incredible standard of excellence that each of us strives to achieve, but few attain. His overall contribution to the league over three-plus decades leaves an indelible mark that will never be forgotten.”

TIMELINE: Jerry Buss’ path

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family & friends of Dr. Jerry Buss,” tweeted Magic Johnson. “He was a great man and an incredible friend.”

A number of players in and around the league also tweeted their thoughts. These are but a few samples:

“Today is a very sad day for all the Lakers and basketball. All my support and condolences to the Buss family,” wrote Pau Gasol. “Rest in peace Dr. Buss.”

“I’m deeply saddened over da loss of the great Dr. Jerry Buss,” tweeted Shaquille O’Neal. “He was a dear friend, mentor and brilliant business mind. [Thank you for eight great years].

“Huge loss for the [NBA] and the basketball world. RIP Jerry Buss,” wrote Kevin Love.

ALSO:

Lakers owner Jerry Buss dies at 80

Read the Lakers’ statement on Jerry Buss’ death

Jerry Buss’ death signals end of an era for Lakers

Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.