Sportswriter Known for Bringing the Lakers to Minneapolis, Sid Hartman Passes Away at 100

Renowned and longtime sportswriter Sid Hartman has passed away at 100 years old. Hartman left an impactful legacy and was known for bringing the Lakers to Minneapolis.

The sports world and the city of Minneapolis have lost a great icon in the person of writer Sid Hartman who died on Sunday, October 18. The devastating news was shared by his son, Chad Hartman, who wrote on Twitter:

"My father's extraordinary and resilient life has come to a peaceful conclusion surrounded by his family."

The tweet was liked over 29,700 likes and got several comments from fans who sent their condolences to the grieving family. While the cause of his demise wasn't revealed, Sid was reportedly surrounded by his loved ones when he took his last breath.

After dropping out of high school in 10th grade, Sid luckily got an internship on the sports desk at the old Minneapolis Times.

The sports editor of Star Tribune, Chris Carr, mourned the loss of the longtime writer praising Sid for being committed until the end and writing his column up until his 100th birthday in March.

The Minnesota Vikings also released a statement expressing their heartbreak at the loss of the icon. They described Sid as a "tenacious reporter and tireless advocate" and lauded his work ethic until his final days. Sid was a sports columnist and radio personality whose career began as young as 9 when he sold newspapers on the street corners.

After dropping out of high school in 10th grade, Sid luckily got an internship on the sports desk at the old Minneapolis Times. That was the beginning of the renowned sportswriter who moved on to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, where he spent his entire career.

Throughout his impressive career, Sid excellently covered NBA stars who hailed from Minneapolis. However, his most impactful legacy was in 1946 when he solely brought the Lakers to Minneapolis after offering $15,000 to the owner. Even though he was just 26, Sid envisioned a future of sports for the city and became the Minneapolis Lakers' first unofficial general manager.

In 1949, the team won its first championship and, before their relocation to Los Angeles, took home a total of five titles in twelve seasons. In his 75-year career, Sid had over 21,000 bylines and his last article was published on the day he passed. Sid's life was indeed an one that lasted a poignant century, and his legacy won't ever be forgotten.