Cumulus Media has tapped one of New Mexico’s most recognizable sports figures to anchor afternoons on 95.9 FM & 610 The Sports Animal. Former University of New Mexico basketball standout and 11-year NBA veteran Kenny Thomas will debut his new weekday show this week, airing Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.
For Thomas, the move represents a full-circle moment in the same city where his basketball journey began. The UNM legend remains one of the most beloved athletes in Lobo history. Plus, he continues to be an influential figure in Albuquerque’s sports and business community.
“Albuquerque made me,” Thomas said. “I’ve played here, raised my family here, and I’ve never stopped talking hoops here. Taking afternoons on The Sports Animal means more time with Lobos fans and more honest conversations with the 505.”
Thomas, already a familiar voice to listeners across Albuquerque. The new program will feature a mix of insider interviews, player development analysis. Also local high school and UNM coverage, and listener interaction. His conversational approach and deep ties to the community aim to make the show a daily must-listen for sports fans throughout the state.
“Kenny is authentic, competitive, and connected—the perfect fit for afternoons,” said Brandon Vogt, Program Director for Cumulus Albuquerque. “He knows this market, he knows our teams, and he knows how to carry a locker room-level conversation on the radio. In this new role, Kenny will make a huge impact in the community and on the airwaves. Continuing the tradition of great local sports talk in Albuquerque on New Mexico’s heritage sports station, The Sports Animal. We couldn’t be more excited.”
The new show expands Thomas’s presence across the Cumulus Albuquerque cluster. He currently hosts Unfiltered with Kenny Thomas on Saturdays on The Sports Animal and Lobos Live on sister station News Radio KKOB 96.3.
His weekend programs have earned strong local engagement and helped build a foundation for this weekday opportunity.
A first-round pick in the 1999 NBA Draft (No. 22 overall), Thomas spent 11 seasons in the league, including stints with the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Sacramento Kings. He was inducted into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame and has maintained close ties to the university and local athletic scene.
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