TITLE: Veteran announcer Kevin Calabro exits Trail Blazers booth after contract talks stall
SLUG: kevin-calabro-exits-trail-blazers-after-contract-impasse
CONTENT:
Portland, OR — Long-time NBA broadcaster Kevin Calabro is leaving the Portland Trail Blazers after failing to reach a new agreement with the team, he confirmed on July 22.
Calabro, who has handled television play-by-play duties for Portland since 2016, said the organization’s offer was “subprime,” prompting him to walk away rather than return for the 2026-27 season.
“I feel great about it,” Calabro told The Oregonian. “I was grateful to have one of 30 jobs in the league and work so close to my home in Seattle. I’ll always be a part of Blazers history.”
Plans beyond Portland
The 68-year-old emphasized that he is not retiring. Conversations with other NBA teams are scheduled for next week, and he is open to freelance assignments or college basketball broadcasts if the right opportunity arises. “I’m not thinking about retirement,” he said. “I’m thinking: What’s the next project?”
Blazers overhaul broadcast operations
Calabro’s departure comes amid a sweeping reorganization of the franchise’s media arm under owner Tom Dundon. The club recently announced “changes for the upcoming season” designed to align with industry shifts and improve operational efficiency.
As part of those adjustments, Portland will maintain a dedicated radio broadcast through the 2026-27 campaign instead of simulcasting the TV audio. Additional broadcast details have not yet been finalized.
With Calabro moving on, the Blazers will begin the search for a new lead television voice before the season tips off.
Source: Hoops Wire
