Basketball legends Dick Vitale and Charles Barkley are set to collaborate for exciting broadcasts during this college basketball season. Their first game together will feature the highly anticipated matchup between Indiana and Kentucky.
Dick Vitale and Charles Barkley: A Historic Partnership
On Saturday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m. ET, the duo will call the game between No. 25 Indiana and No. 19 Kentucky on ESPN. This event combines the expertise of play-by-play commentator Dave O’Brien with the vibrant energy of Vitale and the candid insights of Barkley.
Upcoming Events
In addition to the Indiana-Kentucky game, Vitale and Barkley will reunite in March during the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. They will make their debut as a team while calling a First Four game, airing on truTV.
Celebrating Basketball Icons
Both Vitale and Barkley have received numerous accolades in their careers. They are honored members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Their partnership is expected to bring a unique perspective to each broadcast, captivating fans across the nation.
A Perfect Match for Fans
- Dick Vitale: Known for his infectious energy, storytelling, and a career spanning over 46 years, Vitale has called more than 1,000 games since joining ESPN.
- Charles Barkley: An esteemed analyst, Barkley has been a prominent figure on TNT Sports’ Inside the NBA for over 25 years, earning a reputation as a cultural icon.
Craig Barry, EVP and Chief Content Officer at TNT Sports, remarked on the pairing, highlighting the excitement this collaboration brings to fans and the game itself. Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, echoed this sentiment, seeing this unique combination as a gift for basketball fans.
A Long-Awaited Opportunity
Harold Bryant, Executive Producer at CBS Sports, emphasized Vitale’s significant contributions to basketball. He expressed satisfaction at finally giving Vitale the opportunity to call an NCAA Men’s Tournament game alongside Barkley, marking an essential milestone in their broadcasting careers.
Fans eagerly anticipate these must-see college basketball broadcasts, as Vitale and Barkley promise to provide unforgettable commentary throughout the season.
