Al Michaels Steps Aside: No NBA Return for Beloved Announcer as Amazon Prepares for 2025 Launch
The NBA’s move to Amazon Prime Video has brought with it a nostalgic reunion for many, especially with the return of legendary broadcaster Al Michaels. However, this much-anticipated collaboration has taken a surprising turn, as Michaels has revealed he will not be rejoining the league’s broadcast team when Amazon’s package kicks off in 2025. He’s instead passing the torch for the next era of NBA coverage on the streaming giant.
Key Takeaways:
- Michaels, Now 79, Declines NBA Return: Michaels, currently the voice of Thursday Night Football on Prime Video, has expressed his desire to step back from NBA coverage, citing his age and wanting to focus on his existing commitments.
- Experienced Announcer Stepping Aside: This decision marks the end of an era for Michaels, who once anchored ABC’s NBA coverage, calling several high-profile Finals, including the 2004 and 2005 series.
- Prime Video Seeks Long-Term Solution: Amazon, planning for the next 11 years of its NBA deal, recognizes the need for a fresh and lasting voice for their coverage. Michaels’ absence opens the door for a new team, potentially led by Ian Eagle, to become the face of the streamer’s NBA broadcasts.
- A New Chapter for Prime Video Sports: Amazon’s jump into NBA coverage establishes them as a prime player in the sports landscape, joining their already expansive NFL programming. This marks a new direction for Prime Video, with Michaels’ departure signifying the beginning of a new era for the streamer’s sports offerings.
A Change of Plans for the Legendary Voice
In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Michaels explicitly stated his intentions to avoid a return to NBA commentary, stating, "I love doing the NBA, but that was a long time ago and I’m happy just to spectate next year and beyond." His stance highlights a desire for a well-deserved break after a long and illustrious career in sports broadcasting.
Rewinding the Clock: Michaels’ NBA Tenure
While it might seem like a surprise to many, Michaels’ history with NBA coverage is far from distant. He was the lead NBA announcer for ABC, famously taking over from Brad Nessler and calling several memorable Finals, including the 2004 and 2005 series alongside analysts Doc Rivers and Hubie Brown respectively. Michaels’ departure from ABC in 2006 marked the end of an era for the network’s NBA coverage, paving the way for Mike Breen to become the new voice of the league.
Amazon’s Vision for the Future of NBA Coverage
With an 11-year commitment to the NBA, Amazon is looking to build a long-term strategy for its coverage. This includes not only securing high-profile talent like Michaels but also establishing a consistent voice and team that can resonate with viewers for years to come. Michaels, now in the final year of his contract with Amazon, clearly recognizes that he’s not the architect for this long-term vision. "Amazon should put a group together that can do this for a lot of years and build", he stated, emphasizing the need for continuity and a new direction for the streaming giant’s NBA broadcasts.
Who’s Up Next?
The most recent speculation surrounding Amazon’s NBA coverage centers around Ian Eagle, the well-respected broadcaster currently working for TNT Sports. Eagle, known for his insightful commentary and engaging style, is widely considered a strong contender to take over as the lead voice for Prime Video’s NBA coverage. Some reports even suggest he could eventually succeed Michaels on Thursday Night Football, further solidifying his role as a key figure in Amazon’s sports strategy.
A New Era for Prime Video Sports
Amazon’s foray into sports began with their NFL package three years ago, swiftly establishing the platform as a major player in the realm of sporting events. With the addition of the NBA, Amazon is poised to become a nightly fixture for sports fans, showcasing their commitment to providing diverse and engaging content.
Michaels’ departure signifies a generational shift for Prime Video, marking the beginning of a new era for the streamer’s sports offerings. It’s a transition that will be watched keenly by fans, as Amazon looks to establish its own legacy in sports broadcasting, building upon the foundation that Michaels helped lay. Even with Michaels stepping back, the anticipation for Amazon’s NBA coverage remains high. The question now is, who will be the next iconic voice guiding viewers through the exciting world of NBA action on Prime Video?
