Sunday, January 20, 2013
- by B.B. Branton
"The Voice” is approaching a milestone.
Known as “JR” and the “Voice of the Mocs”, Jim Reynolds will be honored by UTC on Feb. 21, the night of his 1,000th UTC men's basketball broadcast as the Mocs host UNC-Greensboro.
Passionately describing the action from coast-to-coast for nearly 35 years, the hall of fame announcer has brought radio broadcasts of hoops action to Mocs fans in their homes and vehicles and in more recent years around the world via the internet.
Along the way, Reynolds has broadcast the highs and lows of the Blue and Gold from such legendary venues as Kentucky’s Rupp Arena, Allen Fieldhouse in Kansas, Carmichael Arena and the Dean Dome in Tar Heel Land, "Hoosiers'" Hinkle Field House at Butler U. and Indiana's Assembly Hall.
The Illinois State grad has called the final game in Maclellan Gym, the christening of McKenzie Arena and the UTC Cinderella run to the NCAA Sweet 16 and all its madness in 1997.
Reynolds has passionately called improbable comeback wins at Mississippi State and Appalachian State at home - both from 19 down - and the cutting down of Southern Conference title nets for coaches Murray, Mack and Shulman.
He’s witnessed the sweet shots of Jordan, Bias and Curry and interviewed such hall of fame coaches as Dean Smith and Lefty Driesell.
For years, Reynolds has highlighted and recognized the talented careers of Wilkins and White ... Taylor, Mims and Moore ...Born, Brooks and Copeland ... and now Z., Gee and Tay.
And now it's time for UTC and his listeners to say thanks for the memories. And maybe one thousand more.
contact B.B. Branton at william.branton@comcast.net