Ralph Lawler on Hollywood Walk of Fame: The greatest thrill of my professional life
Nearly 70 years ago, an 8-year-old Ralph Lawler stood at the intersections of Hollywood and Vine and dreamed big.
On Thursday afternoon, Lawler received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame not far from that very same spot when he first witnessed the 'wow factor' of Los Angeles.
"I had dreams and aspirations but I was never bold enough to dream that some day, I'd be standing here today and get this star," said the 77-year-od Lawler. "People say it's long overdue, I'm not sure it's even due. People say you deserve it, I'm not sure I deserve it but I will take it folks. This is a thrill."
The longtime Los Angeles Clippers broadcaster, in his 37th season with the franchise and 40th year in professional basketball, was happy to see his star was in the radio category, as he still considers himself 'a small-town radio guy from Peoria, Illinois.'
In case you missed it live, re-watch the ceremony here.
Over the course of his career, Lawler broadcasted the NBA debuts of his three favorite players ... Julius Erving, Magic Johnson and Blake Griffin.
"I'd like to find a way to tell you how much this means to me ... and it's not easy to do," said Lawler, who praised the 'acceptance' the Clippers have received in the community over the last five years.
'Everything has changed," Lawler added.
Joining Lawler at the ceremony were friends and family, former Clippers players and coaches and even current coach Doc Rivers and point guard Chris Paul, who made a very Hollywood entrance to the event.
"He represents what the Clippers are all about," said Rivers, drawing cheers from crowds still celebrating Wednesday night's thrilling comeback over the Thunder.
Lawler joins Chick Hern (Lakers), Bob Miller (Kings), Vin Scully (Dodgers), Al Michaels and Terry Bradshaw as sports broadcasters with their own stars.
Lawler's star, funny enough, is conviently located steps outside of a sports bar, one that's likely aired some of his over 2,800 Clippers games.
Oh me .... Oh my!! #ralphlawler now part of Hollywood lore pic.twitter.com/ZEIiLd0rFv
— FOX Sports West (@FoxSportsWest) March 3, 2016
Even with a mailbox in his sight line, CP3 tells #ralphlawler ... 'I wanna be just like you when I grow up... https://t.co/R2nwGY19tT
— FOX Sports West (@FoxSportsWest) March 3, 2016
.@clipperdarrell has a message for his friend @Ohmeomy @LAClippers pic.twitter.com/sD86iHKDk6
— FOX Sports West (@FoxSportsWest) March 3, 2016
