Why Is Brent Musburger Retiring? ESPN Sports Broadcaster Calling It Quits

One of the all-time great sports broadcasters is set to call it quits. Brent Musburger will announce his final game on Jan. 31, marking the end of a legendary career.

Wednesday’s announcement was unexpected, coming just six days before Musburger will say goodbye as he broadcasts ESPN’s college basketball telecast between Kentucky and Georgia. Musburger, 77, has been in the industry for nearly 50 years, and he joined ABC/ESPN in 1990 after gaining prominence with CBS.

“What a wonderful journey I have traveled with CBS and the Disney company,” Musburger said in a statement. “A love of sports allows me to live a life of endless pleasure. And make no mistake, I will miss the arenas and stadiums dearly. Most of all, I will miss the folks I have met along the trail.”

The abrupt nature of Musburger’s retirement has created some speculation surrounding the circumstances of his departure. The broadcaster found himself at the center of some controversy earlier this month when he wished Oklahoma football player Joe Mixon well after the running back was suspended for assaulting a female student.

Both ESPN and Musburger say the comments didn’t affect the recent decision.

“Brent’s presence and delivery have come to symbolize big time sports for multiple generations of fans,” ESPN president John Skipper said in a statement. “When he opens with his signature ‘You are looking live,’ you sit up straight in your chair because you know something important is about to happen.

“Brent’s catalog of big events is unmatched, and he has skillfully guided us through some of the most dramatic and memorable moments in sports with his authentic and distinctive style. He is one of the best storytellers to ever grace a sports booth. We and the fans will miss him.”

Musburger told the Associated Press that he plans to use the millions of airline miles he’s earned during his career to travel, and he’ll be moving to Las Vegas to help his family start a sports handicapping business. One of the trademarks of Musburger’s broadcasting career was references he would make to the game’s betting line.

Musburger’s career highlights include hosting Super Bowl pregame and halftime shows, as well as doing play-by-play for seven BCS Championship Games.