Mike Patrick, ESPN's iconic play-by-play voice for 36 years, dies at 80
Known for his long tenure as the NFL voice on "Sunday Night Football" and his extensive coverage of college sports, Patrick's death marks the end of an era in sports broadcasting.
Patrick's iconic career began in 1982 when he joined ESPN as a play-by-play announcer. He was the face and voice behind ESPN's "Sunday Night Football" for 18 years, calling games from 1987 to 2005.
But it wasn't just football where Patrick left his mark; he also played a pivotal role in broadcasting college sports, particularly basketball, where he covered over 30 ACC championships and anchored the Women's Final Four from 1996 to 2009.
"Mike Patrick called countless significant events over decades at ESPN and is one of the most influential on-air voices in our history," said Burke Magnus, ESPN's president of content. "His work on both college and professional sports has set the standard for play-by-play excellence."
Beyond his work in the booth, Patrick was revered for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge of the games he covered, and the warmth he brought to every broadcast.
ESPN colleagues like Dick Vitale and Jay Bilas paid tribute to Patrick, recalling his professionalism, energy, and immense love for the ACC, where he made his name in college basketball.
"Mike had great energy and a keen knowledge of ACC basketball," said Vitale. "He was truly one of the best. RIP Mike Patrick." Bilas echoed similar sentiments, remembering Patrick as "a pro's pro" and a friend who significantly influenced his own broadcasting career.
Patrick's contributions were not limited to football and basketball. He was also part of ESPN's coverage of the College World Series and served as the play-by-play voice for both "Thursday Night Football" and "Saturday Night Football" in college football. In 1987, he called ESPN's first-ever regular-season NFL game, alongside NFL legends Joe Theismann and Paul Maguire.
Reflecting on his career, Patrick once said, "It's wonderful to reflect on how I've done exactly what I wanted to do with my life."
His departure from ESPN in 2018 was a bittersweet moment for fans and colleagues alike, as he had worked with some of the most talented individuals in the industry, both on air and behind the scenes.
Mike Patrick's legacy will live on as one of the most iconic voices in sports broadcasting. His work shaped ESPN's coverage of both college and professional sports, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans and colleagues across the world.
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