Jerry Bus Suffering With Cancer; Kobe and Shaq React
Jerry Buss, the 79-year-old owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, has been hospitalized with cancer recently, which has prompted the response of those affiliated with the team in both the past and present day.
Buss has helped the Lakers get 10 championships, but he has recently made headlines for some health issues. In Dec. 2011, Buss was treated for blood clots while he was hospitalized for dehydration last July.
However, the Los Angeles Times reported that his most recent health issue stemmed from cancer that resulted in his hospitalization.
The Times quoted Buss' son, Jim, who said his father was "doing fine" previously. The Lakers owner gained some public support from those who have been affiliated with his team over the years.
Shaquille O'Neal took to his Twitter on Thursday to wish the Lakers owner well.
"Dr. Jerry Buss, thinking about u & wish I could be there, get well soon (SIC)," the former Lakers center tweeted. "I can't wait 2 see u on 4/2/13 (hash)LoveYou."
Kobe Bryant, Lakers guard, also gave high praises to Buss amid his health issues.
"He's extremely, extremely intelligent and extremely patient," Bryant said in a Los Angeles Times report. "He has his goals. He knows exactly what he wants to do and how he wants to construct the ball club."
Bryant said Buss has influenced him even as a child.
"The brand of basketball that he brought here with Showtime and the impact that has had on the sport as a whole -- those vibrations were felt to a kid all the way in Italy at 6 years old before basketball was even global. His impact has been felt worldwide," he said.
Out of respect for his family, The Times reported that Lakers' spokesman John Black will not comment on Buss' health at this time.
