NO MORE SPARKS!!

I am sad to report that, after 16 seasons on the job, I am being replaced as the "Voice of the Los Angeles Sparks".  I received word, this week through Time Warner Cable, that the Sparks' new management team has decided to "completely revamp the Sparks' broadcast team". Needless to say, I was surprised to get the news and to get it while the Sparks are already in training camp and just two weeks away from their 2014 WNBA season opener.

I loved working with the Sparks! 

Johnny Buss hired me to call Sparks' games on the radio in 1998 and, at times in the early years at the Forum, we were on stations that were so small that fans could not pick up the post-game show from the arena parking lot. I had 15 more one-year contracts with the organization and eventually moved to calling Sparks' simulcasts & televised games. 

Along the way, I outlasted a few team owners, numerous team presidents, coaches, players, some great broadcast partners, and an unimaginable number of P.R directors. 

We had a great run together, won a couple of championships, and enjoyed some very memorable moments, so I am extremely disappointed to see my "best summer job ever" come to an end.

There isn't much that shocks me in the sports broadcasting business anymore. I know there isn't much loyalty or respect and I reluctantly understand that working hard and doing a good job is no guarantee of success or employment. I know that I gave the Sparks everything that I had, supported the team and promoted the WNBA to the best of my ability. 

The Sparks' new management has every right to make the changes they deem necessary. They have a business to run. I wish the best to the team and my friends in the organization. 

My only regret is that not one of those friends felt it was important to inform me, in a timely fashion, of changes that would impact my career and my family, and nobody called to say

 "thanks" for a great ride. 

So, let me say it.

"Thanks to all the Sparks' players, coaches and fans for your friendship and kindness and for an amazing 16 year ride!"

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