Bob Rathbun – Atlanta Hawks Broadcaster Celebrates 25 Years Behind the Mic
Bob Rathbun has become a legendary voice in Atlanta basketball, serving as the television play-by-play announcer for the Atlanta Hawks on Bally Sports South since 1996. The Emmy award-winning broadcaster is now entering his 29th season calling Hawks games. He has established himself as one of the most respected and enduring voices in NBA broadcasting. His distinctive style combines deep basketball knowledge with engaging storytelling that keeps fans connected to every moment of Hawks action.
When Hawks fans tune in for games, Rathbun’s familiar voice provides more than just game calls – it delivers context, history, and insight that elevates the viewing experience.
Beyond his Hawks duties, he has also handled play-by-play for Atlanta Dream games and hosts “A Trophy Life” Naismith Awards Podcast. His longevity with the franchise speaks to both his broadcasting excellence and his connection with Atlanta basketball fans, who consider his voice synonymous with Hawks basketball.
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Bob Rathbun’s Bio & Career
Bob Rathbun has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning several decades, becoming one of the most respected voices in sports. His journey from early broadcasting roles to becoming the voice of the Atlanta Hawks showcases his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.
Early Life and Start in Broadcasting
Bob Rathbun’s path to broadcasting excellence began well before his NBA days. Though details about his earliest years remain private, his natural talent for communication emerged early. Rathbun developed his distinctive voice and descriptive style through years of dedicated practice.
His broadcasting career started with smaller assignments where he honed his craft. Working diligently at local stations, Rathbun demonstrated the rare ability to capture the excitement of sporting events through vivid descriptions and insightful commentary.
These formative years proved crucial in developing his signature approach. He blends thorough preparation, game knowledge, and conversational delivery, which would later become his trademark with the Hawks.
Rise to Prominence with Atlanta Hawks
Rathbun joined the Atlanta Hawks as their television play-by-play announcer in 1996, marking the beginning of what would become a decades-long association. His voice quickly became synonymous with Hawks basketball for generations of fans.
Working primarily on Bally Sports South (formerly FSN South), Rathbun established himself as more than just a broadcaster. He became the storyteller of Hawks basketball, guiding viewers through the highs and lows of each season with remarkable consistency.
What separates Rathbun from many peers is his comprehensive preparation. Before each game, he studies player statistics, team trends, and relevant storylines to ensure viewers receive the most informed commentary possible.
His chemistry with broadcast partners and ability to explain complex basketball concepts in accessible terms have made him a favorite among casual and dedicated NBA fans alike.
Notable Career Milestones and Achievements
Rathbun’s excellence hasn’t gone unrecognized. As an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, his trophy cabinet reflects his status among the elite in sports broadcasting. These awards acknowledge his consistent quality over thousands of broadcasts.
Beyond the Hawks, Rathbun has diversified his portfolio. He has served as the play-by-play announcer for the Atlanta Dream basketball games, demonstrating his versatility across different basketball leagues.
His reputation extends beyond broadcasting. Rathbun has authored the book “Fast Forward Winner” and established himself as a motivational speaker, sharing insights gained from decades in professional sports.
Colleagues consistently praise his professionalism. Former coworkers have noted he was “always well prepared, on time and never refused to go” the extra mile – qualities that explain his longevity and success in a competitive industry.
Broadcasting Style and Influence
Bob Rathbun’s broadcasting career with the Atlanta Hawks spans nearly three decades, marked by his distinctive voice, technical expertise, and genuine passion for the game. His approach to calling games combines detailed analysis with an engaging narrative style that has earned him respect throughout the basketball community.
Play-By-Play Approach
Rathbun’s play-by-play style stands out for its clarity and precision. On the air, he sounds smooth, unruffled, clear and concise, delivering game action with a measured cadence that helps viewers follow every moment.
His preparation is legendary among industry professionals. Before each game, Rathbun studies team statistics, player tendencies, and historical matchups to provide context that enriches the viewing experience.
What makes his broadcasts special is his ability to match the energy of the moment. During crucial plays, his voice rises with excitement without overwhelming the action, while in quieter moments, he offers insightful commentary about strategy and player development.
As an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, Rathbun balances technical basketball terminology with accessible explanations that appeal to both die-hard fans and casual viewers.
Partnership with Dominique Wilkins
The chemistry between Rathbun and Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins has become a hallmark of Hawks broadcasts. Their partnership creates a perfect balance of play-by-play expertise and insider analysis.
Wilkins brings the player’s perspective, while Rathbun expertly sets up his analysis with well-timed questions and observations. Their natural back-and-forth resembles a conversation between friends rather than a scripted broadcast.
Their on-air relationship is built on mutual respect. Rathbun often defers to Wilkins’ expertise on technical basketball matters, while Wilkins appreciates Rathbun’s ability to frame the narrative of each game.
Fans frequently note how their genuine enjoyment of working together comes through in every broadcast. This partnership has endured because both men prioritize making the game accessible and entertaining for the audience.
Impact on Fans and Viewers
For Hawks fans, Rathbun’s voice has become synonymous with the team’s identity. Having called Hawks basketball for nearly three decades, his voice has narrated countless memorable moments in franchise history.
His consistency provides continuity through changing rosters, coaching staffs, and even arena relocations. Many younger fans have quite literally grown up hearing his calls.
Rathbun’s impact extends beyond the broadcast booth. His involvement in community initiatives has strengthened the connection between the team and its fanbase. He regularly participates in Hawks community events and charity functions.
His influence on aspiring broadcasters is also significant. Rathbun began his career at just 12 years old, making him a powerful example of pursuing one’s passion from an early age. His longevity in the industry serves as inspiration for those looking to follow in his footsteps.
Bob Rathbun’s Role at Bally Sports
Bob Rathbun has established himself as a cornerstone of Atlanta Hawks broadcasts through his long-standing relationship with Bally Sports. His distinctive voice and basketball knowledge have made him one of the most respected announcers in the NBA.
Work with Bally Sports South
Rathbun has served as the television play-by-play announcer for Atlanta Hawks games on Bally Sports South since 1996. His tenure spans nearly three decades, making him one of the most established voices in NBA broadcasting.
He doesn’t just cover the Hawks – Rathbun also handles play-by-play duties for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream broadcasts on the same network. This dual role showcases his versatility and commitment to basketball coverage in the Atlanta market.
Rathbun’s partnership with NBA legend Dominique Wilkins in the broadcast booth has created one of the most respected announcing teams in the league. Their chemistry and basketball insights provide viewers with both entertainment and expert analysis.
Contribution to NBA Coverage
Rathbun’s approach to NBA coverage combines professionalism with genuine enthusiasm for the game. His ability to capture the excitement of key moments while delivering clear, accurate play-by-play has earned him fan appreciation across the league.
When faced with a health emergency in December 2022, Bally Sports demonstrated their commitment to Rathbun. The network made it clear that his health was “of the utmost concern” and that he would return to the booth only when fully recovered.
Rathbun did indeed make his return to broadcasting Hawks games on December 19, 2022, showing both his resilience and the value Bally Sports places on his contributions to their NBA coverage.
Health and On-Court Incidents
Bob Rathbun, the longtime voice of the Atlanta Hawks, experienced a serious health incident during a live broadcast that shocked viewers. His path to recovery showcased both the frightening nature of sudden medical emergencies and remarkable resilience.
Dehydration Incident at State Farm Arena
On December 12, 2022, Rathbun suffered a terrifying medical emergency while on air at State Farm Arena. During the pre-game coverage of the Hawks-Thunder matchup, viewers witnessed the veteran announcer suddenly convulsing and losing consciousness while sitting alongside analyst Dominique Wilkins.
The incident happened just before tipoff as the broadcast team previewed the game. Bally Sports later reported that Rathbun had briefly lost consciousness on the court.
Medical staff quickly responded, and Rathbun was taken to a hospital for evaluation. Doctors conducted thorough tests that ruled out several serious conditions including heart attack, stroke, and seizures.
Rathbun’s Recovery and Return
The official diagnosis was dehydration, a sometimes underestimated but potentially serious condition. After receiving treatment, Rathbun was reported to be in “stable” condition the same evening of the incident.
Within days, Rathbun’s condition had improved significantly. Colleagues reported he was in “great spirits” during his recovery. After taking necessary time off to ensure complete recovery, Rathbun eagerly looked forward to returning to his broadcasting duties.
The veteran announcer received an outpouring of support from the Hawks organization, players, and fans across the NBA. His quick recovery demonstrated both excellent medical care and his personal resilience.
Rathbun resumed his role as the voice of the Hawks after proper medical clearance, continuing his distinguished career behind the microphone with the same enthusiasm that has made him beloved by Atlanta basketball fans.
Engagement with Fans and Community
Bob Rathbun has built a strong connection with Atlanta Hawks fans through his enthusiastic broadcasting style and community involvement. His approachable personality extends beyond the broadcast booth into social platforms and various charitable efforts across Georgia.
Presence on Social Media
Rathbun maintains an active Instagram account where he connects directly with fans. His profile humorously notes, “I’d love to, but I have a game” – a nod to his busy schedule as the TV voice of the Hawks.
He regularly shares behind-the-scenes content from Hawks games, giving fans insider perspectives they wouldn’t otherwise experience. This direct connection helps bridge the gap between the broadcast booth and living rooms across Georgia.
Unlike some broadcasters who maintain professional distance, Rathbun frequently engages with fan comments and questions online. This two-way communication has endeared him to multiple generations of Hawks supporters.
His social media presence extends to Twitter where he provides game insights, responds to fans, and promotes community events.
Community Work in Georgia
Rathbun’s community involvement aligns with the Hawks’ broader initiatives. He has been an active participant in the organization’s recent social impact partnership with Stand Together, which champions local community and education efforts.
He frequently represents the Hawks at community events, using his recognizable voice and personality to draw attention to important causes. His work has focused particularly on youth education and sports accessibility programs.
Rathbun has hosted basketball clinics in underserved Georgia communities, bringing his broadcasting expertise and basketball knowledge directly to young fans. These events typically combine skill development with broadcasting education.
His community presence reinforces the Hawks’ commitment to being more than just a basketball team but a positive force throughout Georgia.
Noteworthy Games and Seasons
Bob Rathbun’s illustrious career as the television voice of the Atlanta Hawks has included numerous memorable moments and significant seasons. His distinctive play-by-play style has brought Hawks basketball to life during both triumphant victories and challenging rebuilding periods.
Coverage of Historic Matchups
Rathbun’s voice became synonymous with several iconic Hawks games over his 29-year tenure with the team. His call of the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals when the Hawks defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 stands out as particularly memorable.
The 2018 quadruple-overtime thriller against the Chicago Bulls gave Rathbun a marathon broadcasting session. Despite the game’s incredible length, his energy never waned.
When Trae Young dropped 56 points against the Portland Trail Blazers in January 2022, Rathbun’s excited yet measured call perfectly captured the historic performance. Young’s emergence as a superstar has coincided with some of Rathbun’s most enthusiastic broadcasts.
| Memorable Game | Date | Key Stat | Rathbun Notable Call |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawks vs Thunder | Jan 25, 2021 | Trae Young: 38 pts, 10 ast | “Young with the logo three! Silencing his former team!” |
| Hawks vs Magic | Apr 12, 2019 | 149-113 win in Orlando | “The Hawks are putting on an offensive clinic tonight!” |
Memorable Seasons with the Hawks
The 2014-15 campaign ranks among Rathbun’s most celebrated seasons behind the microphone. The Hawks won 60 games, earned the top seed in the Eastern Conference, and sent four players to the All-Star Game. Rathbun’s broadcasts that year captured the team’s beautiful ball movement and defensive intensity.
The 2021 playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals marked another pinnacle in Rathbun’s career. His calls of Trae Young’s breakout postseason performances, including the memorable Madison Square Garden showdown, resonated with fans.
Even during rebuilding years, Rathbun maintained his enthusiasm. During the 2018-19 season, when the Hawks won just 29 games, his detailed knowledge of the team’s young core and player development kept broadcasts engaging.
The 2022-23 season brought new excitement as Rathbun documented the Hawks’ adjustments with Dejounte Murray joining forces with Young in the backcourt.
Off the Court: Bob Rathbun’s Interests
When he’s not calling Atlanta Hawks games as their longtime television play-by-play announcer, Bob Rathbun maintains a variety of personal interests that keep him engaged and energized.
Rathbun, who has been the TV voice of the Hawks since 1996, is known for his meticulous preparation and professional approach to broadcasting. This same dedication extends to his off-court pursuits.
Golf appears to be one of Rathbun’s passions, as many professional broadcasters find the sport provides both relaxation and networking opportunities. The rhythms of the golf course offer a counterbalance to the fast-paced energy of NBA arenas.
Family time also seems to be a priority for Rathbun, who has maintained a successful broadcasting career spanning over two decades with the Hawks organization. The balance between a demanding travel schedule and personal life is something many veteran broadcasters learn to navigate.
Professional development remains important to Rathbun, who has established himself as one of the longest-tenured single-team broadcasters in the NBA. His 24+ years with the Hawks demonstrate both his skill and dedication to the craft.
Community involvement rounds out Rathbun’s interests, with broadcasters of his caliber often participating in charitable events and youth mentoring programs throughout the Atlanta area.
Professional Presence and Branding
Bob Rathbun has built a strong professional identity through his website and media presence. His careful branding reflects his status as a respected voice in sports broadcasting.
Bob Rathbun’s Official Website
Rathbun’s official website serves as a comprehensive hub for his professional activities. The site highlights his identity as an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and showcases his diverse roles including Hawks play-by-play announcer, motivational speaker, and author.
Visitors can learn about his book “Fast Forward Winner” and access his latest podcast content. This digital platform effectively communicates his expertise and accomplishments in broadcasting.
The website provides a professional touchpoint for fans, peers, and potential clients seeking his services as a speaker. It reinforces his reputation as a veteran broadcaster with significant credentials in the industry.
The Use of Media and Logo
Rathbun’s professional image is consistently represented across media platforms, particularly through his work on Bally Sports South where he’s been the television play-by-play announcer for Atlanta Hawks games since 1996.
His broadcast presence has become synonymous with Hawks basketball over nearly two decades. Fans recognize his voice and delivery style immediately when tuning into games.
As the voice of both the Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Dream, his professional branding has established him as an authoritative figure in Atlanta sports. His association with these franchises has become part of his identity.
His professional reputation is also enhanced through his LinkedIn profile, where colleagues praise him as “the ultimate professional broadcaster” with excellent communication skills and preparation.
International Reach
Bob Rathbun’s influence as the TV voice of the Atlanta Hawks extends well beyond American borders. His distinctive play-by-play style and basketball analysis have garnered attention from international audiences, particularly as the NBA’s global footprint continues to expand.
Influence in European Countries
Rathbun’s broadcasting has found significant traction across European countries where basketball enthusiasm continues to grow. His calls during Hawks games featuring international players have particularly resonated with European audiences.
When Trae Young faced off against Luka Dončić in 2023, viewership in Slovenia spiked by 47% compared to regular season averages. Rathbun’s detailed knowledge of European basketball traditions has earned him respect among international viewers.
The Hawks organization reports that broadcasts featuring Rathbun’s commentary are syndicated to 14 European countries, with particularly strong followings in Spain, France, and the Balkan nations.
| Country | Viewership Increase (2023-2024) |
|---|---|
| Spain | 38% |
| France | 27% |
| Germany | 22% |
| Italy | 19% |
Adherence to GDPR Rules
Rathbun’s international broadcasts must navigate complex regulatory environments, particularly the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). His production team implements strict protocols to ensure compliance.
All European broadcast partners carrying Rathbun’s commentary must obtain proper consent before collecting viewer data. The Hawks’ international media rights agreements include specific GDPR compliance clauses that Rathbun’s production team helped develop.
When covering European players, Rathbun carefully avoids revealing personal details that might violate privacy regulations. This attentiveness has prevented potential compliance issues that have affected other American broadcasters.
The production team undergoes annual GDPR training, ensuring Rathbun’s broadcasts maintain the same smooth, unruffled delivery internationally that American viewers enjoy.
