Mathew Ganton
Sports announcers can turn games into exciting narratives. While connecting fans to unforgettable moments in sports history, these ten announcers are celebrated for their distinct styles, calls, and impact on sports broadcasting. Let’s take a closer look at the careers of these iconic voices who have brought the fever of sports into our homes and hearts.
Howard Cosell
Known for his distinctive voice and uncompromising commentary, Howard Cosell was a defining figure in sports journalism. His profession took off in the 1960s when he provided breakdowns for significant boxing matches, including several of Muhammad Ali’s fights. Cosell was also a mainstay on ‘Monday Night Football,’ where his candid assessments and verbal sparring with colleagues like Don Meredith and Frank Gifford captivated audiences.
Bob Costas
Throughout his illustrious career, Bob Costas’s voice has graced the broadcasts of virtually every major sport, encompassing an unmatched 12 Olympic Games. Known for his insightful narration and articulate delivery, Costas has become synonymous with significant moments in sports history, including the Super Bowl, NBA Finals, and Stanley Cup Finals. He has been honored with 28 Emmy Awards and a place in the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame.
Pat Summerall
Four decades of broadcasting have cemented Pat Summerall’s reputation for understated elegance and clear commentary. A former NFL sportsman, Summerall brought a player’s insight to his analysis, particularly in football and golf. He documented 16 Super Bowls and numerous Masters Tournaments, often pairing with John Madden to form one of the most iconic telecasting duos in NFL heritage.
Chris Berman
Esteemed for his lively style and memorable nicknames for players, Chris Berman became a defining voice of ESPN, especially noted for his NFL coverage. His zealous calls and deep knowledge of sports history enriched viewers’ experiences during games and highlight reels. Berman’s signature catchphrases, such as “He could go all the way!” have become part of the sports vernacular.
Jack Buck
Jack Buck was famous for reporting Major League Baseball during his nearly five-decade-long telecasting tenure, especially his time with the St. Louis Cardinals. His poignant and straightforward manner provided the backdrop for some of baseball’s most extraordinary instances. Buck’s memorable call of Kirk Gibson’s home run in the 1988 World Series exemplifies his knack for capturing the remarkable moment.
Red Barber
As one of the pioneers of sportscasting, Red Barber’s career began in the early days of radio. Barber’s innovative approach and calm demeanor set the standard for future generations of sports announcers. He is mainly remembered for his presentation of Brooklyn Dodgers games and for introducing colorful language to baseball broadcasts, which added a new layer of richness to the listening experience.
Bill Stern
The theatrical panache in his storytelling turned routine games into notable events, captivating audiences with every word. Bill Stern’s career in radio during the mid-20th century featured a blend of sports broadcasting and compelling narratives that drew listeners from across the country. His enthusiasm and charisma helped boost the profile of sportscasting throughout its formative years.
Tony Romo
Since transitioning from a successful NFL quarterback to a broadcaster, Tony Romo has quickly become one of television’s most insightful football analysts. By accurately predicting NFL plays and offering in-depth analyses, Romo has changed the layout of sports commentary, earning widespread admiration for his profound knowledge and engaging delivery technique.
Ernie Harwell
With his gentlemanly conduct and warm voice, Ernie Harwell was a notable personality while broadcasting for the Detroit Tigers. His signature greeting, “Good evening, everyone, from coast to coast,” made listeners feel welcomed and valued. Harwell’s contributions to baseball sportscasting were celebrated with the Ford C. Frick Award, highlighting his influence on the sport and its fans.
John Madden
Before becoming closely associated with NFL video games, he was one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting. Thanks to his exuberant personality and deep understanding of football, John Madden’s analysis delivered clarity and excitement to the game, helping casual fans understand complex plays. Madden’s enthusiasm was infectious, and his partnership with Pat Summerall became legendary.