CBS Sports basketball analyst Bill Raftery will be calling his tenth Final Four on the network this coming weekend. For the 81-year-old Raftery, his 30 Final Four broadcasts across radio and television have been one of the greatest blessings of his career, bringing the excitement of March Madness to the masses.
This week, Raftery and his play-by-play partner, Ian Eagle, joined the SI Media Podcast with Jimmy Traina. As the Final Four nears, with all top seeds advancing to San Antonio, the question arises—could this be Raftery’s final call on the broadcast? Moreover, has he thought about retirement?
“It’s somebody else’s hands basically,” said Raftery. “I enjoy it. I think I’m as industrious about getting ready for a game, maybe more so than I was 15 years ago. I think they’ll tell you when it’s time.”
Raftery began his basketball broadcasting journey following stints as a head coach at Fairleigh Dickinson-Madison and Seton Hall. Later, he transitioned into broadcasting, working for ESPN as co-host of College Hoops Tonight in 1980 and calling games for the New Jersey Nets in 1982.
Eventually, his journey led him to CBS Sports in 1983, where he has remained ever since.
“I haven’t thought about it (retirement) at all,” stated Raftery. “If they feel I’m not up to it, then you know it’s time to pack it in.”
Over the years, as college basketball has evolved—especially with the introduction of NIL—Raftery has been open about his thoughts on the sport’s transformation. As one of the most trusted voices in the game, he remains unfazed by the praise and recognition he receives, instead focusing on adapting to the changes in CBS broadcasts.
“The greatest attribute that any of us can have is never coveting somebody’s job,” noted Raftery. “You just put your nose down and do your job and mind your own business. The rest will take care of itself, for better or worse.”
While reflecting on his career, Raftery expressed gratitude for the kindness shown toward him and acknowledged how fortunate he has been to do what he loves.
“I couldn’t play, so I coached,” joked Raftery. “I couldn’t coach, so I got into broadcasting. It’s not a hall of fame track record.”
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