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Hubie Brown, a mainstay in professional basketball for over six decades, is preparing to retire from his role as an NBA analyst. The 91year old veteran will call one final game for ESPN this season, bringing an end to a remarkable career that has spanned both coaching and broadcasting. ESPN’s content president, Burke Magnus, shared the news this week on the SI Media with Jimmy Traina podcast, confirming that Brown’s retirement is imminent.
A Storied Career in Basketball
Brown’s journey in the basketball world began in 1958, when he started playing professionally. After a brief playing career, he transitioned into coaching in 1955, and over the decades, became one of the most respected figures in the game. He coached in the NBA, ABA, and college ranks, earning accolades and making a significant impact on the teams he led.
He began his NBA coaching career with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972, before moving on to become the head coach of the Kentucky Colonels in the ABA. There, he led the team to an ABA Championship in his first season. Following the ABANBA merger, Brown took over as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, where he was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1978.
In 1982, Brown was hired by the New York Knicks, where he coached parts of five seasons. After his coaching stint, Brown became a beloved figure in NBA broadcasting, joining ABC’s NBA coverage and eventually becoming a prominent analyst for ESPN.
A Final Tribute to a Hall of Famer
Burke Magnus expressed deep admiration for Brown’s longevity and commitment to the game, stating on the podcast:
“We are going to give Hubie one last shot on a game. He deserves that. We think the world of him. I think it’s absolutely remarkable the level he still calls games at, at age 90plus. We’re going to honor Hubie this year during the regular season at some point to be determined and send him off in style," he said
Magnus didn’t specify exactly when Brown’s final game would air, but confirmed that a celebration of his illustrious career is in the works. "I don’t think there’s a single human being who’s ever had a longer association with professional basketball,” Magnus said.
The retirement plans come as Brown faces personal hardship, having recently lost both his wife, Claire, in June, and his son, Brendan, in November.
Personal Loss and the Decision to Step Away
This past year has been particularly challenging for Brown, both personally and professionally. The tragic passing of his son, Brendan Brown, who was a former analyst for MSG Network and a regular guest on Knicks radio, has deeply affected the Hall of Famer. Brendan, at just 54 years old, passed away from health complications, which may have played a significant role in Brown’s decision to retire from broadcasting.
The loss of a child is an unimaginable pain, and it’s clear that this personal tragedy has weighed heavily on Brown. Though he has not publicly commented on the loss, it is likely that the combination of grief and his advanced age has prompted him to step away from the game that has been a defining part of his life.
A Legacy of Excellence
Throughout his career, Brown has left an indelible mark on the basketball world, from his time as a coach to his years as a respected analyst. In 2005, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor to the sport, a testament to his lifelong commitment to the game. He is also part of the College Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame.
Brown’s impact on the game extends beyond his expertise in analyzing plays and players. His passion for basketball and his unique ability to break down complex strategies have earned him the respect and admiration of fans and colleagues alike. His voice has been a staple on ABC and ESPN broadcasts, especially during the NBA Finals, where his insights added depth and understanding to the most highstakes games of the season.
The End of an Era
As Brown prepares for his final game, the NBA world will undoubtedly reflect on the monumental contributions he has made to the sport. His tenure as a coach, particularly with the Memphis Grizzlies, helped transform the franchise and brought them their first playoff berth. After a brief return to coaching in Memphis in 2002, where he led the Grizzlies to a 50win season and was named Coach of the Year, Brown transitioned back into broadcasting, where he would become a fixture on NBA broadcasts for years to come.
Although his time in the spotlight is coming to an end, Hubie Brown’s legacy will endure. His knowledge, dedication, and love for basketball have left an unforgettable imprint on the sport. ESPN’s plans to honor him this season with one final game will be a fitting tribute to a career that has spanned more than 60 years.
