Are you a fan of the NBA? Do you take great pleasure in watching the games while also enjoying the broadcast of the game? If so, then you must be familiar with the announcers that commentate on the games.
But have you ever wondered who the best NBA announcers of all time may be? Well, now you can find out! In this article, we will be ranking and evaluating the top basketball commentators from the last several decades, based on their talent, knowledge, experience and longevity in the industry.
From renowned national personalities to local voices, you will get an overview of some of the most notable names from the past. So, if you want to know who the very best NBA announcers are, read on!
1. Michael Wilbon
Michael Wilbon is one of the most respected NBA announcers of all time and has earned a place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.He has been the lead analyst for ESPN’s NBA coverage since 2009 and is the co-host of the highly successful ‘Pardon the Interruption.’’ He was formerly a sportswriter and columnist for The Washington Post. He also provided analysis for TNT alongside Marv Albert from 2008 to 2021.
Michael Wilbon is respected and renowned for his knowledge of the game and his ability to provide thoughtful commentary on the action. He is not afraid to criticize players when needed and is known for his comedic timing and quick wit. He is also well-versed in the history of the game, and has written extensively about the greatest players of all time, such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
Wilbon is often joined by a sideline reporter, such as Doris Burke, during games. He is also known for his insightful interviews with players, coaches and other personalities involved in the NBA. His presence has been a major contributor to national broadcasts of the NBA, including NBC’s coverage of the NBA Finals.
Michael Wilbon is a highly respected NBA announcer who has earned his place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and is recognized as The Voice of the Suns. He has been an integral part of the NBA’s success over the past decade and will continue to be an important voice in the basketball world for years to come.
2. Mike Breen
Mike Breen is a highly experienced basketball commentator, having broadcasted NBA games for over 30 years.He currently serves as the main voice for New York Knicks games on MSG Network and is a highly sought-after national sportscaster. In addition to his extensive experience in the NBA, Breen also has experience in college basketball, having broadcasted games for the Big East Network.
Breen’s broadcasting career began in the mid-1990s when he started providing commentary for the New York Knicks games. He quickly rose to prominence, and in 2006 he began providing commentary for the NBA Finals on ABC. Since then, he has been a mainstay in ABC’s NBA coverage and has become a household name amongst basketball fans.
Breen is known for his enthusiasm and knowledge of the game and his ability to accurately call plays. He has been praised for his ability to capture the essence of an NBA game, while also providing insightful analysis and commentary. He is also well-known for his signature call “Bang!”, which has become a fan favorite.
In 2019, he earned $500,000 for his services for the NBA, and in 2020 he was presented with the prestigious Curt Gowdy Award. This award is given to individuals who have made the most significant contribution to basketball broadcasting. Mike Breen has been honored with the esteemed Curt Gowdy Award in 2020, cementing his legacy as one of the best NBA announcers of all time.
Local TV & Radio Homers
Mike Breen is the lead voice for the NBA on ESPN and ABC, including the NBA Finals and NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC. He is also the main voice for New York Knicks games on MSG Network and is a highly sought-after national sportscaster. His extensive experience and expertise in basketball have earned him his esteemed status as the premier NBA announcer for ESPN.
The local TV and radio outlets for which Breen serves as the lead voice are numerous. He has provided commentary for Fox Sports, NBC’s NBA coverage, and TNT’s NBA coverage. Breen has also been a part of the NBA’s biggest events, including the NBA Finals and the All-Star Game.
In addition to Breen, there are several other sports commentators that have made their mark in the NBA broadcasting world. These include Kevin Harlan, who has provided commentary for NBA games since 1982, and Doug Collins, who was an NBA announcer for both NBC and Turner. Jim Jackson and Steve Jones have also been integral to NBA broadcasting, providing insightful analysis and captivating commentary.
These announcers have all made their mark in the NBA broadcasting world and have become synonymous with the game. Their passion for basketball and their knowledge of the game are unparalleled, and their voices are instantly recognizable to basketball fans.
3. Marv Albert
Marv Albert is a highly experienced sports broadcaster, having served as a play-by-play announcer for NBA games for many years.He has lent his voice to TNT, NBC, and CBS for NBA play-by-play coverage. Marv. Albert is renowned for his superior skill and expertise in the field and has earned multiple Emmy and Cable ACE Awards, and was the 1997 recipient of the Curt Gowdy Award presented by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in recognition of his exemplary broadcasting and writing within the sport. Marv’s distinctive vocal style and signature catchphrases have helped cement his place as one of the most recognisable and beloved broadcasters.
Marv Albert is widely regarded as the preeminent ‘voice of the NBA’, and is held in high esteem by NBA enthusiasts. He has recognized Johnny Most, Mike Gorman, and Tommy Heinsohn as three of the best NBA announcers of all time. His signature phrases “Yes!” and “With the kiss!” have helped define him as an iconic figure in the NBA’s broadcasting history.
Marv Albert has had an illustrious career, having served as the voice of the New York Knicks (1967-2004), lead voice for NBA action on TNT, provided play-by-play for the then-New Jersey Nets via the YES Network, called New York Rangers’ games, NFL, NCAA basketball and boxing. His contributions to the NBA broadcasting world are undeniable, and his legacy will continue to live on.
4. Charles Barkley
Charles Barkley is one of the most recognizable NBA commentators of all time.During his playing career, which spanned from 1984 to 2000, Barkley was a 14-time All-Star and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. After retiring from the game, he transitioned to broadcasting, and since then he has become a regular part of TNT’s NBA telecasts.
Barkley is renowned for his outspoken approach, which is not always in line with popular opinion and may be considered controversial by some. His presence has become more conversational when he is in the arena rather than in a studio, and his basketball knowledge has provided viewers with an insightful perspective on the game.
Barkley is also well-known for digressing during broadcasts, providing a unique brand of entertainment that viewers have grown to love. In addition to his regular appearances on TNT, Barkley is a regular guest host on ESPN’s The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, and a regular contributor on Inside the NBA.
His outspoken approach, combined with his experience as a player and commentator, make Charles Barkley one of the best NBA announcers of all time.
5. Jeff Van Gundy
Jeff Van Gundy is a highly experienced basketball coach and broadcaster, having served as head coach for the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.He is currently an analyst on ESPN/ABC’s lead broadcast team alongside Mike Breen and Mark Jackson. His candid and direct approach to commentary, often offering his opinion on players, referees, and the NBA’s regulations, has made him one of the most popular basketball commentators in the nation.
Van Gundy is highly regarded for his willingness to express his honest opinion without fear. In addition to his analysis, Van Gundy is also well-known for his vocalization during high-pressure games, providing a unique insight into the game. His passionate and traditionalist outlook has made him one of the most sought-after commentators in the NBA. Further, his insight and expertise have earned him accolades from across the sports world.
Van Gundy’s overall goal as an analyst is to identify and address instances of hypocrisy and foolishness in the basketball world. He does this by providing his audience with in-depth analysis of the game, as well as offering his opinion on topics such as player performance, referee decisions, and the NBA’s regulations. He often uses his platform to call out players, referees, and the NBA’s protocols, while simultaneously offering his own solutions. His objective is to ensure that the game is played fairly and with integrity.
Jeff Van Gundy’s exemplary performance as an NBA commentator for ESPN has made him one of the best NBA announcers of all time. His passion and dedication to the game, combined with his expertise and insight, make him a valuable asset to the NBA. His willingness to express his honest opinion and provide solutions to the issues he identifies is what sets him apart from other commentators. Jeff Van Gundy seeks to identify and address instances of hypocrisy and foolishness in the basketball world, making him one of the best NBA announcers of all time.
6. Bill Walton
Bill Walton is one of the most respected and beloved NBA announcers of all time.With a career spanning over four decades, his unique insights and opinions have captivated audiences for years. Walton has achieved a level of basketball knowledge that is unparalleled in the NBA, having played for the Portland Trailblazers and Los Angeles Lakers and been inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. His expertise in the game of basketball ranges from its history to its current state, making him an invaluable commentator.
In addition to his basketball knowledge, Walton is also renowned for his distinctive style. He often uses quotes from a variety of sources, and his sense of humor tends to be unpredictable. This makes him a versatile commentator, able to comment on just about any situation with ease. His catchphrase, “Clyde the Glide”, also speaks to his expansive lexicon and frequent utilization of rhyming phrases.
Bill Walton’s commentary is often well-received by audiences, as they find his remarks amusing, interesting, and insightful. He is able to offer valuable perspectives on the game of basketball, as well as comment on the players and teams with a level of expertise that few other commentators can match. His unique insights and expertise make him a valuable asset to the NBA announcing team.
7. Steve “Snapper” Jones
Steve “Snapper” Jones was an American Basketball Association (ABA) player and a part of the NBA on NBC for 13 years. He was known for his colorful commentary and dynamic between him and his partner Mike Breen, which provided NBA fans with an entertaining and insightful experience. On the local telecasts, Steve Jones provided commentary for the Portland Trail Blazers and NBA TV.
In 1976, Steve Jones began providing in-game commentary for CBS. His role with CBS allowed him to acquire national recognition as a commentator and analyst. His insights into the game were greatly appreciated by basketball fans and he established himself as one of the best NBA announcers of all time.
Steve Jones was known for his ability to break down the game and provide insightful analysis. He was able to convey his basketball knowledge to viewers and could explain the action on the court in an easy to understand manner. His knowledge of the game and ability to convey his message made him one of the top NBA announcers of all time.
8. Bill Raftery
Bill Raftery is one of the most beloved NBA announcers of all time. He has been a National Sportscaster of the Year, as well as a three-time Emmy Award winner. Raftery is known for his enthusiasm and signature play-by-play calls, such as “Send it in, Jerome!” and “Onions!” His legendary catchphrases have become synonymous with the game of basketball.
Raftery’s career spans decades, from his days as a college basketball coach to his current role as a color commentator for the NBA. He has called countless games for CBS, ESPN, and most recently, Fox Sports. He also served as a commentator for the 1984 Summer Olympics. Raftery is well-known for his analysis and insights during broadcasts, as well as his ability to keep the energy high and the audience engaged. He has earned the respect of fellow announcers, including Mike Breen and Bill Russell.
His signature calls and enthusiasm for the game have made him a fan favorite for decades. Raftery’s legacy as an announcer is undeniable, and his contributions to the world of basketball will be remembered for years to come.
9. Walt “Clyde” Frazier
Walt “Clyde” Frazier is one of the most iconic NBA announcers of all time. Frazier’s professional basketball career began in 1967 when he was drafted by the New York Knicks, and he played for the team until 1977. After his playing career ended, Frazier transitioned to broadcasting and began providing commentary for NBA games in the early 1980s. Since then, he has served as a color commentator for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns, and Portland Trail Blazers.
Frazier is widely respected for his unique and thoughtful style of commentating. His sharp analysis and colorful stories bring life to every broadcast. He is also known for his unique fashion style, which he has named “Clyde-Style” in honor of his nickname. Frazier’s iconic style of broadcasting has been an inspiration to many, and his legacy as an announcer will live on for years to come.
In addition to his career as a commentator, Frazier was also inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987, the same year he began his tenure as a color commentator for the New York Knicks. He was inducted alongside a fellow NBA legend, Bill Russell, as part of the same class, which speaks to the level of respect Frazier has earned throughout his playing and announcing career.
Frazier is one of the most iconic NBA announcers of all time and continues to bring an exciting and unique voice to every broadcast. His influence on the game of basketball and on the broadcasting industry is undeniable, and he is an integral part of the NBA today.
Frazier’s iconic style of broadcasting has been an inspiration to many, and his legacy as an announcer will live on for years to come.
10. Jack Ramsay
Jack Ramsay is one of the most iconic NBA announcers of all time. A veteran of the broadcast booth for over fifty years, Ramsay’s unmistakable voice and knowledgeable insights have been a staple of the game since the 1950s. Not only was he a seasoned and respected announcer, he was also a legendary coach, leading the Portland Trail Blazers to their only NBA title in 1977. In addition, Ramsay is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, having been inducted in 1992.
Ramsay was an incredibly versatile announcer, with an ability to communicate to both casual and hardcore fans. His style was straightforward and honest, yet he also had the knack for capturing the nuances of the game. He was a true student of the game, and was often ahead of the curve when it came to analyzing the action on the court. He was also an excellent storyteller, and his stories were often the highlight of his broadcasts. His impact on the game of basketball was immense, and his influence can still be felt today.
Jack Ramsay’s impact on the NBA will continue to be felt for many years to come. His unique style and knowledge of the game will live on in the minds of those who had the pleasure of hearing him call a game. He was a master of his craft, and an invaluable asset to the world of basketball broadcasting.
11. Hubie Brown
Hubie Brown was known for his teaching and coaching, and he hosted a coaches clinic that many NBA announcers attended. The clinic featured a variety of topics, including how to call a game, how to analyze matchups, and how to evaluate the skills of players. Mike Breen, Bill Walton, and Bill Russell were just some of the announcers that attended these clinics. Brown was able to convey his knowledge of the game in an understandable way, while also providing historical context.
Attending Brown’s clinics gave announcers a better understanding of the game, which made them more effective in their craft. He was able to provide perspective on game strategy and player tendencies, making it easier for announcers to break down a game and provide insight to viewers. Brown was also a master at storytelling, able to provide entertaining narratives about the players and coaches on the court.
His clinics were a great way to learn the game and gain insight into the history of basketball, making Brown one of the best NBA announcers of all time.
12. Chick Hearn
Chick Hearn was an iconic figure in NBA broadcasting, having been the voice of the Los Angeles Lakers for over 40 years. He broadcasted a record 3,338 consecutive Lakers games, and his signature phrases such as “slam dunk,” “air ball,” “finger-roll” and “give and go” have become staples of the NBA lexicon. His coverage was so renowned that he was awarded the Curt Gowdy Award by the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997.
In 2001-02, Hearn underwent a cardiac bypass procedure, which fortunately did not impede his broadcasting career. After recovering, he continued to broadcast Lakers games until his passing in 2002. His loss was felt throughout the NBA, with the Lakers retiring his number of 42 in 2004 and the NBA creating the Chick Hearn Award in his honor.
Chick Hearn’s legacy lives on through his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and his many contributions to NBA broadcasting. He was an innovator and a master of his craft, and his impact on the NBA will be felt for generations to come.
Summary
In conclusion, NBA announcing is an integral part of the game, providing basketball fans with the knowledge, energy and enthusiasm required to inform and entertain in equal measure. The list of the top NBA announcers of all time includes Michael Wilbon, Mike Breen, Marv Albert, Charles Barkley, Jeff Van Gundy, Bill Walton and many other broadcasting greats. Each one has been responsible for contributing to the greatness of the sport through their decades of experience, excellent communication skills, passion for the game, witty remarks and in-depth knowledge of basketball.
This illustrious group of announcers have provided insight into the game, allowing viewers to comprehend the greater scope of the NBA. Every legendary announcer has made an indelible impression on the broadcasting industry, not only entertaining current audiences, but also inspiring a new generation of basketball commentators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best NBA announcer of all time?
With his iconic voice and unparalleled knowledge of the game, Marv Albert is undeniably the greatest NBA commentator ever. His decades-long broadcasting career saw him call games for various networks such as MSG Network, NBC Sports, TNT, and YES Network, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the world of basketball commentary.
Who were the announcers for the 1990s NBA?
In the 1990s, Marv Albert and Mike Fratello were the lead announcers for NBA games on NBC, with Ahmad Rashad serving as a sideline reporter.
Other networks featured Dick Enberg and Steve Jones during this time period.
How much do NBA announcers get paid?
NBA announcers can expect to make a good salary, with the median annual salary clocking in at around $65,530 per year. The range generally begins at just over $27,370 and can go all the way up to over $187,200.
