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The Art of Play-by-Play With Guy Haberman

Guy Haberman is a play-by-play commentator, television and podcast host at the Big Ten Network, a leading sports network covering collegiate athletics in the Big Ten Conference. He is recognized for his dynamic play-by-play calls in both football and basketball, as well as for his popular podcast and YouTube content focused on the San Francisco 49ers, with years of experience spanning major events like the Big Ten Tournament and extensive radio work in the Bay Area. Guy began his sports broadcasting career in high school by calling local games, later honing his craft at California State University, Fresno, and is known for his meticulous preparation and authentic, engaging style. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [0:23] How Guy Haberman launched his sports media journey young  
  • [1:09] The college strategies that jumpstarted his broadcasting career  
  • [2:44] Why self-critique is crucial for media growth  
  • [6:00] How podcasting and radio shaped his 49ers coverage focus  
  • [8:53] Why versatility is key in sports media success  
  • [10:36] Game prep secrets for handling unpredictable live broadcasts  
  • [12:26] Master tournament preparation for covering multiple teams seamlessly  
  • [14:46] Insights into the unique rhythms of football versus basketball  
  • [17:29] How building real relationships improves on-air chemistry  
  • [23:26] Advice he wishes he got earlier in his career

 

In this episode…

Long before he became a mainstay in college football and basketball broadcasting, today’s guest started out calling high school games in a small town with nothing but passion and a borrowed microphone. He’s navigated unconventional paths and fiercely competitive markets, all while honing his unique voice and approach to sports media. But what does it truly take to stand out, evolve, and stay relevant in an industry teeming with aspiring voices?

 

Guy Haberman reveals how he tackled these challenges head-on, starting from humble beginnings in Davis, California, and working his way up through relentless self-critique and adaptability. By actively seeking out feedback, learning from every broadcast — especially the imperfect ones — Guy embraced constant growth and specificity in his craft. He details his transition from local radio to play-by-play roles in major college tournaments and the NFL, sharing insights on how authenticity and preparation set him apart in crowded media landscapes. Guy emphasizes the importance of versatility, teamwork, and preparation — whether it’s prepping for blowouts in football or marathon basketball tournaments. He also discusses the value of building genuine connections, both with colleagues off-air and with audiences, to foster trust and deliver broadcasts that are both informative and enjoyable.

In this episode of Beyond the Game with Hal, host Hal Steinberg talks with Guy Haberman about mastering authenticity and adaptability in sports broadcasting. Guy shares lessons on self-evaluation, seeking feedback, and the behind-the-scenes prep for big moments. They discuss being your hardest critic, preparing for the unexpected, and balancing energy with sincerity — offering valuable insights for aspiring broadcasters and fans alike.

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

 

Quotable moments:

  • “Nobody should know your material better than you, and in this case, your material is the mistakes you make and the things you’re working on.”
  • “If it doesn’t interest me, I can’t make it interesting. Do the stuff that’s interesting to you.”
  • “Everything you do builds a strength for another, you know, medium. Each thing helps another thing.”
  • “Being personally invested makes you professionally better.”
  • “You just put more into football because it’s bigger — it’s a full week, you are all in for half the week, basically.”

 

Action Steps:

  1. Get hands-on early: Volunteer or call games to build skills, confidence, and a strong foundation.
  2. Critique your work: Review performances to spot habits, track progress, and grow as your own toughest critic.
  3. Build authentic connections: Invest in relationships off-air to strengthen teamwork and collaboration on-air.
  4. Prepare and adapt: Organize background info and anticipate scenarios to stay ready for the unexpected.
  5. Seek specific feedback: Ask targeted questions to get actionable advice and refine your craft.

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