Hubie Brown's Final NBA Game

In what marks the closing chapter of a remarkable career, Hubie Brown, the esteemed broadcaster and former coach, will call his final NBA game for ESPN this season. This exciting announcement came from ESPN President Burke Magnus during a recent appearance on the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast.

Magnus expressed his deep respect for Brown, stating, “We are going to honor Hubie during the regular season at some point to be determined and send him off in style.” Although no specific game has been scheduled, industry insiders suggest that Brown will partner with the iconic play-by-play announcer Mike Breen for this special farewell game.

A Legendary Career

Turning 91 in September, Brown has had a legendary career in basketball that spans over five decades. He has coached basketball legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson, faced off against icons such as Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, and has been part of the commentary for emerging talents like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama.

Journey in Broadcasting

Brown’s journey in broadcasting began unexpectedly in the 1981-82 season after he was dismissed as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks. He partnered with Al Albert on the USA Network, embarking on a storytelling career that would later include stints at CBS and TNT as well. By 1987, when the New York Knicks let him go, he transitioned to a full-time analyst role for CBS. He then joined TNT in 1990, following CBS losing the NBA broadcasting rights.

Staying Young at Heart

Reflecting on his age, Brown once told The Athletic, 'I don’t think I’m 90 years old…I come downstairs and I get my manila pad out, and I have a list of all the things I’m going to do today.' His enthusiasm and love for the game have remained unshaken, allowing him to maintain a rigorous schedule of approximately 15 games per season from 2020 to 2023 for ESPN/ABC, often on one-year contracts as they continued to extend his tenure.

A Colleague’s Tribute

Colleague Dave Pasch praised Brown’s unmatched passion for broadcasting, recounting how, during commercial breaks, Brown ensures they work seamlessly together and shares valuable insights on standout statistics. 'Hubie is an incredible teammate,' Pasch noted, adding that their off-air dinners nurture a family-like bond that enhances their on-air chemistry.

Celebrating a Pioneer

As Brown prepares for his final game, basketball fans around the world are poised to celebrate the legacy of a true pioneer in sports broadcasting. His contributions have not only shaped the way we understand the game but have also created an indelible impact on sports media. Mark your calendars for this historic farewell—Hubie Brown's last call will surely be one for the ages!