Hubie Brown, a prominent figure in basketball as both a coach and broadcaster, has received heartfelt tributes from across the NBA community as he enters retirement, culminating an impressive career that spans over fifty years in professional basketball.
The 91-year-old Brown bid farewell to the broadcasting world during his final game, where the Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Philadelphia 76ers with a score of 135-127. Following the game, Brown was honored with the game ball, a fitting end to his storied tenure.
Reflecting on his career, Brown expressed his gratitude on air, stating, “I have so many things to be thankful for, but my family and I can never thank everyone enough. We just want to send them the love that I’ve seen today right back with a big hug. It was a fantastic ride.”
Prior to the game, players from both teams took the time to greet him, and Brown received a warm standing ovation during an opening timeout where a tribute video was shown on the Fiserv Forum scoreboard. Clearly moved, Brown blew kisses to the audience and mouthed “Thank you,” indicating the deep emotional connection he has cultivated over the years.
Brown reflected on his roots with the Bucks, noting that Milwaukee was where his NBA coaching journey began as an assistant on Larry Costello’s staff in 1972. He reminisced, stating, “When I came here to the Milwaukee Bucks and Larry Costello, I received a master’s degree and a doctorate’s degree in basketball in two years.”
His coaching career is marked by significant achievements, including leading the ABA’s Kentucky Colonels to a championship in 1975, as well as coaching for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Memphis Grizzlies. Furthermore, he was recognized as the NBA Coach of the Year twice, in 1978 and again in 2004.
In addition to his coaching prowess, Brown’s analytical skills graced national television and radio broadcasts for 35 years, during which he covered a total of 18 NBA Finals. His exceptional contributions to the sport earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005.
Bucks guard Damian Lillard commended Brown’s impact on the league, stating, “I’m sure he’s seen so much growth and so much change not only in the game of basketball but in the league. It’s the people who love the game and the contributions from people like Hubie Brown that makes it special.”
Mike Breen, who called the game on Sunday, described working with Brown as “the ultimate honor,” echoing sentiments shared by many broadcasters who celebrated Brown as a father figure in their professional journeys. In a poignant moment, Brown responded with gratitude, acknowledging the emotional weight of the occasion.
ABC’s coverage included touching moments such as showing footage of Brown’s first-ever NBA broadcast from 1981 and featuring messages from colleagues like Mike Tirico, who paid tribute remotely during the game. Various clips highlighted Brown’s extensive career, accompanied by warm testimonials from fellow industry figures.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recognized Brown’s passion, stating, “You took great joy in teaching the finer points of basketball.” In another token of respect, Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse gifted Brown a miniature Liberty Bell before the game, symbolizing the esteem in which he is held within the league.
Bucks coach Doc Rivers shared that he frequently consults Brown for advice, citing his extensive experience and knowledge of the game, while veteran Bucks center Brook Lopez expressed how meaningful it was to have Brown call one of his games early in his career. Lopez added that Brown’s insights and coaching mentality persist even in his commentary work.
As the Bucks prepared for their final game, Rivers took the opportunity to educate younger players about Brown’s contributions to the sport, reinforcing the legacy that Brown has established throughout the years.
In closing, Brown shared just how significant it was for him to conclude his career in Milwaukee, stating, “For me to end it here is very meaningful because I learned so much here.”
This heartfelt farewell marks not just the end of an era for Hubie Brown but also highlights the profound influence he has had on basketball, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
