‘A colorful player and man’
In a brief statement, Buss reflects on Hundley’s contributions to the Lakers.
Hot Rod was a colorful player and man, and an important member of the early Lakers teams in the 1960s and therefore the history of our franchise. We’re saddened by his passing, and send our condolences to his family.
‘One of the best play-by-play announcers in the game’
Upon hearing the news of Hundley’s death, West gives this statement:
I am saddened by the news of the passing of my longtime friend, Rod Hundley. I first met Rod when I was 18 and he encouraged me to attend West Virginia University. We were Laker teammates and never lost contact…Rod was not only a great basketball player, but one of the best play-by-play announcers in the game. He will be missed by all those he touched through his legendary career as will his colorful story-telling.
‘Legendary’
Mourning Hundley’s death, Miller gives this statement:
Hot Rod was the voice of the Utah Jazz for 35 years and his voice was synonymous with Jazz radio. The expressions he used throughout the game broadcasts are legendary. He had the unique ability to make the game come to life so that you felt as though you could see what was happening on the floor when listening to him call the games…Rod was a very special talent and will be missed by our family as well as Jazz fans everywhere. Our thoughts and condolences are with the Hundley family.