Videos played throughout the night at Little Caesars Arena displaying Bob Lanier’s entire offensive repertoire on Monday evening.

Following the video, a spotlight illuminated Lanier’s No. 16 jersey in the

LCA rafters and former Pistons greats escorted five Lanier family members

to center court where they were presented with commemorative plates to

honor Lanier as the crowd cheered. 

For the Pistons, the night was a way to show appreciation and gratitude for the recent death of the man nicknamed the ‘Big Dobber’.

And while Lanier became famous for his play on the court, his son noted the impact Lanier had off the court through his work in the Detroit community and his work with the NBA to promote education following his retirement.

“He represented Detroit well as far as his community outreach and by helping those less fortunate,” Robert Lanier III said. “The Pistons recognize his impact so I’m pleased they are honoring him tonight and my family is here to embrace that.”

Former Detroit Piston Greg Kelser, who is a television commentator for Bally Sports Detroit, idolized Lanier during his rookie years.

“It was fun watching him on a nightly basis, just play hard, be consistent, and put in every ounce of effort to win,” Kelser said. “That was infectious, I admired him.”