History’s Most Legendary Sports Commentators
By
Dan Holmes
Contributor Updated: 17 December 2024
Dan Holmes Contributor
Dan Holmes, a content creator and sports betting enthusiast, brings over a decade of experience to Betting.US. His extensive writing background spans from the internet to prestigious roles at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Dan’s articles, featured on numerous websites, cover various sports, from bowling to disc golf.
Legendary Sports Commentators
In this article we honor the most influential figures behind the microphone, celebrating the legendary sports commentators who made unforgettable contributions to the industry. These past sports commentators didn’t just call games; they became the soundtrack of sports history, providing vivid descriptions and emotional depth that resonated with fans across generations.
Sports Commentators Enhance the Excitement
The great moments of sports in our lives are ringing in our ears still, and that ringing is narrated by the voices of the legendary sports commentators from the past. They can make a sports event unforgettable and even more exciting.
Among the best ever commentators are iconic names like Keith Jackson, who became synonymous with college football. Who can forget John Madden, with his insightful and animated NFL commentary, not only revolutionized football broadcasting but also became a cultural icon. Howard Cosell’s distinctive urbane style covered everything from boxing to Monday Night Football, making him a household name.
In the NBA, Marv Albert’s voice became inseparable from basketball’s biggest moments, while Dick Vitale brought unmatched passion and enthusiasm to college basketball. The MLB found its voice through Vin Scully, who spent nearly seven decades calling games for the Dodgers.
In addition, versatile workhorses Bob Costas and Al Michaels, who made their marks on Olympic media coverage. These iconic voices defined sports broadcasts with a unique blend of excitement, authority, and insight. Except for the action, picking one sportsbook from the list of all betting sites to place bets on your favorite team or athlete can further increase adrenaline levels.
History’s Best Ever Commentators
These commentators shaped how fans experienced sports, setting a standard for storytelling that remains a benchmark for today’s broadcasters. Their voices were more than just commentary; they were the bridge connecting fans to the action, forever cementing their place in sports history.
Howard Cosell: Pioneering Broadcaster
Howard Cosell was not just a commentator; he was a cultural force. As one of the most memorable old sports commentators, his distinct, nasally voice and bold, unapologetic style made him a staple on Monday Night Football and in the boxing ring, where he narrated Muhammad Ali’s rise.
Known for saying, “Tell it like it is,” Cosell’s approach was as much about storytelling as it was about the game itself. His relationship with Ali became legendary, with the two trading quips on air in a way that was unmatched. Many viewed him as a divisive figure, but few could deny his impact.
Fellow broadcaster Frank Gifford once said, “Howard was the voice of an era, for better or worse.” While not always beloved by fans or athletes, his ability to blend commentary with social issues made him one of the best ever commentators who brought gravity to the sports he covered.
John Madden: Voice of the NFL
John Madden’s booming enthusiasm for football was contagious, making him one of the best ever commentators in the NFL. His voice carried the excitement of the gridiron, and his signature “Boom!” after big hits made Sunday afternoons feel electric. Madden’s vivid descriptions, combined with his telestrator wizardry, gave viewers an intimate look at football strategies.
As an old sports commentator, Madden brought a coach’s insight and a fan’s passion to the booth. His partnership with Pat Summerall turned games into must-watch events. Madden’s love for the game extended beyond the booth, influencing millions of young fans through his famous Madden NFL video game series.
He was synonymous with football and became a voice that families trusted to make sense of the chaos on the field. Brett Favre once said, “You knew you’d made it when Madden talked about you.” That’s the power of a legend.
Bob Costas: Man for all Seasons and Sports
Bob Costas’ silky smooth delivery and thoughtful insights made him one of the best ever commentators across multiple sports. Whether covering the Olympics, MLB, or the NBA, his ability to convey drama and meaning was exceptional. Costas delivered eloquent commentary during some of the sport’s most significant moments, including Cal Ripken Jr.’s record-breaking streak and the 1998 home run chase.
Costas’ voice became an anchor during thrilling sporting events. He once said, “Sports is like a love affair,” and he made sure viewers felt every bit of it. His hosting of the Olympic Games for nearly three decades provided gravitas to the games, and his commentary was not just about plays and scores but about the emotions behind them.
Vin Scully: Baseball’s Greatest Announcer
Vin Scully was the radio and TV voice of the Dodgers for 67 years, making him a legend among old sports commentators. His melodic storytelling style made each game feel like a conversation with an old friend. Scully had a knack for weaving anecdotes seamlessly into play-by-play, transforming baseball broadcasts into poetic experiences.
His call of Kirk Gibson’s dramatic walk-off home run in Game One of the 1988 World Series—”In a year that has been so improbable, the impossible has happened!”—is still one of the greatest moments in sports commentary. Scully was baseball’s most cherished voice.
Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax said of Scully, “He brought the game to life in a way no one else could.” Scully’s presence in the booth turned ordinary games into cherished memories for generations of fans, and his voice will forever echo through baseball history.
Al Michaels: “Do you Believe in Miracles?”
Al Michaels was synonymous with big moments, delivering iconic calls in some of sports’ most unforgettable events. His most famous line, “Do you believe in miracles?” during the 1980 Winter Olympics remains etched in the minds of sports fans. Michaels’ versatility, from Monday Night Football to the World Series, made him one of our best ever commentators.
The cerebral Michaels covered it all, and his ability to add the perfect level of drama without overstepping has been key to his success. His longtime work on Sunday Night Football continues to cement his place as a living legend. “Al has a knack for capturing the moment, and that’s what separates the good from the great,” said fellow broadcaster Cris Collinsworth.
Frank Gifford: Athlete Turned Sports Broadcasting Icon
Frank Gifford was a former NFL star running back who brought firsthand knowledge to the broadcast booth. As a key figure in Monday Night Football, Gifford’s calm and steady style complemented the more animated Howard Cosell, creating a unique dynamic that became iconic. Known for his classic line, “Another day at the office,” he brought a player’s perspective and a professional demeanor to his commentary.
Gifford’s versatility extended beyond football, as he also covered the Olympics and golf. A legendary sports commentator, he was famous for his ability to simplify the game for viewers while retaining excitement. He had a rare gift for making sports accessible without losing their grandeur. Whether in the booth or on the sidelines, Gifford’s contributions to sports broadcasting set a standard for professionalism and charm.
Dick Vitale: College Hoops Hype Man
Dick Vitale’s passion for college basketball was infectious, earning him a place among the best ever commentators. With his catchphrases like “Awesome, baby!” Vitale brought an unmatched energy that made every game feel like the Final Four. His personality burst through the screen, turning him into one of the most recognized voices in sports.
As an old sports commentator, Vitale’s animated style helped elevate college basketball’s visibility. His connection with the sport extended beyond the court; he was an advocate for cancer research and youth programs. Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski once said of Vitale: “Dick’s enthusiasm is contagious. He makes you love the game.” Vitale’s voice has become a staple of college basketball, making each broadcast an event in itself.
Keith Jackson: Legendary Voice of College Football’s Great Games
Keith Jackson’s voice was the soundtrack of college football for over five decades. Known for his trademark exclamations like “Whoa, Nelly!”, Jackson brought authenticity and warmth to his commentary, making him one of the best in the sport. As one of the iconic old sports commentators, he covered everything from the Rose Bowl to the biggest rivalries.
Jackson’s ability to elevate the atmosphere of any game, whether it was a national championship or a regular-season matchup, made him a beloved figure in the broadcast booth. The legendary Alabama football coach Bear Bryant summed up Jackson’s career: “Keith could make a 3-yard run sound like a 50-yard dash.” His storytelling skills and heartfelt enthusiasm turned games into stories, resonating with fans across the country.
