Bill Raftery

Bill Raftery is an American college basketball broadcaster renowned for his energetic and colorful commentary. A former player and coach, he transitioned to a legendary broadcasting career, primarily with CBS Sports and Fox Sports, where he has become a signature voice of the NCAA Tournament. His distinctive style, characterized by a deep knowledge of the game and a series of beloved catchphrases, has made him an iconic figure in sports broadcasting for over five decades.

Early life and playing career

Born in Orange, New Jersey, Raftery was a standout basketball player at St. Cecilia High School in Kearny, New Jersey. He played collegiately at La Salle University under coach Donald "Dudey" Moore, where he was a key member of the 1963–64 squad. Following his graduation, he was selected by the New York Knicks in the 1964 NBA draft but did not play in the NBA. Instead, he began his coaching career, first as an assistant at his alma mater before becoming the head coach at Fairleigh Dickinson University and later at Seton Hall University.

Broadcasting career

Raftery's transition to broadcasting began in 1971 with radio calls for the New York Nets of the ABA. His national television breakthrough came with ESPN in the early 1980s, where he became a fixture on college basketball broadcasts. In 1983, he joined CBS Sports, forming a legendary partnership with play-by-play announcer Sean McDonough and later with Jim Nantz and Grant Hill on the network's top NCAA Tournament crew. After the 2015 season, he moved to Fox Sports and Fox to call Big East games and the Big East men's basketball tournament, while continuing his role with CBS and Turner Sports for the NCAA tournament.

Style and catchphrases

Raftery's broadcasting style is celebrated for its infectious enthusiasm, deep strategic insight, and a unique lexicon of catchphrases that have entered the sport's vernacular. His exclamations for specific plays, such as "Onions!" for a clutch shot, "A little kiss!" for a gentle bank shot, and "Send it in, big fella!" for a powerful dunk, are instantly recognizable. He is also known for describing a deft pass as "With the left hand!" and a player maneuvering through traffic as "The blow-by!" His chemistry with analysts like Jim Nantz and Grant Hill and his ability to elevate the drama of a game have made his calls a beloved part of the March Madness experience.

Personal life

Raftery married his wife, Dee, in 1966, and they have two children. He maintains a residence in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Known for his affable personality off the air, his long-standing friendships within the basketball community, including with fellow broadcaster Dick Vitale, are well-documented. His passion for golf is also a noted part of his life outside the broadcast booth.

Awards and recognition

Throughout his career, Raftery has received numerous accolades for his contributions to sports broadcasting. He is a multiple-time Sports Emmy Award winner and has been honored by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame with the Curt Gowdy Media Award. In 2021, he received the prestigious National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame's Contributor Award. His enduring popularity was cemented with a Sports Illustrated feature naming him one of the most influential voices in the game, and he is frequently celebrated by organizations like the Associated Press and the United States Basketball Writers Association for his excellence and impact. Category:American sports announcers Category:1943 births Category:Living people Category:La Salle University alumni Category:College basketball announcers