Hubie Brown's illustrious career in basketball has been a tapestry of coaching, broadcasting, and teaching, painting intricate views of the game for millions. Starting his journey in 1968 as an assistant coach at the College of William & Mary, Brown quickly found himself not only on the court as a coach but also in the classroom, teaching elective basketball courses. This early experience paved the way for a remarkable career spanning over five decades, during which his voice became synonymous with insightful basketball commentary.
This Sunday, Brown, at the age of 91, will step into the broadcasting booth one last time for ABC's telecast of the Philadelphia vs. Milwaukee game. It's a full-circle moment, returning to Milwaukee, where he started his NBA journey as an assistant coach in 1972. Over the years, Brown's audience expanded from students to players, coaches, and global TV audiences, thanks to his insightful analysis and vivid storytelling.
Mike Breen, Brown's broadcasting partner, speaks to Brown's unparalleled gift for teaching the game. It's the most remarkable thing and it’s not hyperbole: He has probably taught more people about the game of basketball than anybody that's ever lived, Breen remarked.
Brown's career is marked by transitions between coaching and broadcasting. He earned a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005, a testament to his profound impact on the sport. Having called 18 NBA Finals, he remains as dedicated and meticulous as ever, watching both teams play at least twice before commentating.
The presence of nerves, even after so many years, speaks to Brown's dedication to providing high-quality commentary. You're always nervous, Brown admits. You want to be able to paint the picture, you want to be able to educate the fan to another level of expertise. His work ethos, shared with the director and producer, is likened to the camaraderie of coaching.
Among fans and professionals, Brown's broadcasting style is renowned for its educational value. Hall of Famer Bernard King has fond memories of Brown's unique broadcasting approach. I used to love listening to him because he was quite different than any other broadcaster, King shared. Brown's insightful analysis allowed fans not only to enjoy games but understand them on a deeper level.
Famous for phrases like the painted area and encouragements such as you must, Brown's passion for the game was clear whether he was praising a great play or critiquing mistakes. His detail-oriented coaching style transferred into his broadcasting, reflected in his appreciation for strategic plays and the opportunity to highlight coaching prowess.
Brown's journey into television came unexpectedly in 1981, with no prior experience or initial interest in TV work. Yet, this new chapter unfolded naturally, with Brown alternating between broadcasting and coaching, including a celebrated stint with the Memphis Grizzlies where he won a second NBA Coach of the Year award.
Even off the court, Brown's coaching spirit shone through. During the 2006 NBA Finals, Breen recalls an invaluable moment of advice when nerves threatened to disrupt his commentary. Just call the game the way you always call it and we’ll be fine, Brown told him, a moment Breen treasures to this day.
As Brown concludes his broadcasting career, enduring personal challenges such as the loss of his wife and son over the past year, Breen and many others aim to honor his legacy. Despite Brown's reluctance for excessive tributes, his contributions to the sport and innumerable lessons imparted ensure his legacy endures.
