Cory Provus – Big Ten Network Announces New Play-by-Play Commentator for 2025 Season
Cory Provus has become a familiar voice to Big Ten sports fans across the Midwest. The versatile broadcaster splits his time between calling Minnesota Twins games and handling play-by-play duties for Big Ten Network basketball and football broadcasts. Since joining BTN’s roster of commentators, his smooth delivery and deep knowledge of both sports have made him one of the network’s most reliable on-air talents.
Provus continues to expand his role at the network, having been named among the play-by-play broadcasters for the 2024-25 Big Ten basketball season. This follows his work during the 2023 football season, where he was part of a veteran group of play-by-play announcers for the network. When not calling games for BTN, Provus serves as the Twins broadcaster and occasionally calls college hoops for Fox Sports, showcasing his versatility behind the microphone.
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Professional Background
Cory Provus has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning multiple sports and networks, establishing himself as a versatile play-by-play announcer with experience in both radio and television formats.
Early Career
Provus’s journey began in his hometown of Highland Park, Illinois, where his Chicago roots helped shape his broadcasting style. He developed his skills at Syracuse University, a well-known breeding ground for broadcasting talent, where he worked at the student-run radio station WAER-FM.
After graduation, Provus paid his dues in smaller markets, working with the UAB Blazers and honing his craft. His early work demonstrated the clear, descriptive style that would eventually become his trademark.
The foundation he built during these formative years prepared him for bigger opportunities. His ability to paint the game with words and maintain energy throughout broadcasts caught the attention of major market teams.
Advancement to Major Roles
Provus’s career accelerated when he joined the Chicago market, where his local knowledge and professional delivery resonated with audiences. His work in Chicago led to an opportunity with the Milwaukee Brewers, further expanding his professional portfolio.
The biggest leap came when Provus was selected to join the Minnesota Twins radio team. Initially partnering with veteran broadcaster John Gordon, Provus later assumed the lead play-by-play role alongside analyst Dan Gladden.
His work with the Twins showcased his ability to balance detailed game description with insightful analysis. This dual-sport capability—maintaining quality in both baseball and basketball broadcasts—has become Provus’s calling card.
Current Position at Big Ten Network
At the Big Ten Network, Provus has established himself as a reliable play-by-play voice for college basketball and football. His distinctive style combines thorough preparation with spontaneous energy that elevates big moments.
Provus effectively balances his BTN duties with his ongoing role as the radio voice of the Minnesota Twins, demonstrating remarkable versatility across seasons and sports. During basketball season, he travels the Big Ten conference calling games alongside various analysts.
His work has expanded to include appearances on FOX Sports broadcasts for college basketball, further cementing his status as one of the network’s trusted voices. Provus’s preparation and basketball knowledge shine through in these national assignments.
On the BTN basketball broadcasts, he’s known for his chemistry with color commentators and his ability to capture the intensity of conference rivalries.
Role and Impact in Sports Broadcasting
Cory Provus has established himself as a versatile and respected voice across multiple sports platforms. His work spans both radio and television, covering baseball, basketball, and football with a distinct style that resonates with fans.
Contribution to Radio Broadcasting
Provus has made his most significant mark as the voice of the Minnesota Twins on the Twins Radio Network. Initially joining the team’s broadcast crew, he has since become the lead radio voice, bringing baseball to life for listeners across Minnesota and beyond.
His radio style blends detailed play-by-play with contextual statistics that enhance the listener experience. When working Twins games, Provus partners with analysts like Kris Atteberry to create accessible broadcasts that appeal to both casual and dedicated fans.
What separates Provus from many contemporaries is his preparation. Before each series, he compiles comprehensive notes on opposing players, historical context, and relevant storylines—all delivered seamlessly during broadcasts.
Influence on Television Coverage
In 2023, Provus expanded his role by taking on TV play-by-play duties for the Twins on Bally Sports North. This transition showcases his adaptability between broadcast mediums.
His television work extends beyond baseball to the Big Ten Network, where he serves as a play-by-play announcer for basketball games. The network utilizes his talents as part of their rotation of announcers, alongside Kevin Kugler, Brandon Gaudin, and Dave Revsine.
Provus brings a consistent energy to television that mirrors his radio work but adapts to the visual medium. He lets the game breathe when appropriate, understanding that television viewers can see what radio listeners cannot.
Collaborative Work with Analysts
Provus has developed strong on-air chemistry with various analysts, enhancing broadcast quality through thoughtful collaboration. His work with former Twins players like Justin Morneau and Trevor Plouffe demonstrates his ability to draw out expert analysis.
During his earlier career, Provus worked alongside the legendary Ron Santo for Chicago Cubs broadcasts, showing his ability to complement established personalities while maintaining his own broadcasting identity.
| Broadcasting Role | Network/Team | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Radio Play-by-Play | Minnesota Twins | 2012-Present |
| TV Play-by-Play | Bally Sports North | 2023-Present |
| Basketball Play-by-Play | Big Ten Network | 2022-Present |
His flexible broadcasting approach allows analysts to provide deeper insights while Provus maintains the narrative flow of the game. This balance creates broadcasts that are both informative and entertaining for sports fans.
Recognition and Awards
Cory Provus has established himself as a respected voice in sports broadcasting, particularly in his role with the Big Ten Network. His clear delivery and insightful commentary have earned him recognition throughout his career.
Prior to becoming one of the lead play-by-play voices for Big Ten football broadcasts, Provus built his reputation through his work with the Minnesota Twins. In 2023, the Twins recognized his broadcasting excellence by promoting him from radio to television as their primary play-by-play announcer.
This promotion came as Provus was selected to replace Dick Bremer, a longtime fixture in Minnesota sports broadcasting. The move demonstrated the organization’s confidence in Provus’s abilities and professional reputation.
His versatility as a broadcaster has been evident in his work across multiple sports for the Big Ten Network, where he has become a fixture calling football games for the conference.
| Career Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Minnesota Twins TV Voice | 2023-Present |
| Minnesota Twins Radio Voice | Prior to 2023 |
| Big Ten Network Football | Lead Play-by-Play |
| Born | July 7, 1978 |
Provus’s career trajectory places him among the rising talents in sports broadcasting, following in the tradition of acclaimed announcers like Jim Nantz and Dick Stockton, who have received Hall of Fame recognition for their contributions to sports media.
Personal Aspects of Cory Provus
Beyond the broadcast booth, Cory Provus maintains a balanced life that includes family commitments and personal interests that shape who he is away from the microphone.
Family Life
Cory Provus values his role as a husband and father tremendously. His X profile proudly lists “Husband, Dad” among his primary identities, placing family alongside his professional credentials.
Though Provus maintains privacy regarding his children, he has established roots in Minnesota since joining the Twins organization. The transition from Chicago to Minnesota represented not just a career move but a family relocation.
His upbringing in Highland Park, Illinois (Chicago area) laid the foundation for his midwestern values. According to a podcast interview, Provus discussed his background growing up in the Chicago suburbs before attending Syracuse University.
Interests Outside of Broadcasting
When he’s not calling games for the Twins or Big Ten Network, Provus reveals himself as an avid Pearl Jam fan. His X profile even includes the Pearl Jam lyric “Troubled souls unite. We got ourselves tonight.”
Music represents just one facet of his personal interests. His work schedule splits between Minnesota during baseball season and traveling throughout Big Ten territory for basketball and football broadcasts.
This travel throughout Iowa, Minnesota, and other midwestern states has likely deepened his connection to the region. Provus demonstrates substantial preparation for broadcasts, suggesting a studious nature that extends beyond game day.
His connection with players and coaches isn’t merely professional. The Twinkie Town article notes his “great insight” stems from spending “plenty of time with players and coaches,” indicating genuine relationship-building rather than surface-level interactions.
Maintaining Audience Connection
Cory Provus has built remarkable rapport with fans across Twins Territory through his authentic broadcasting style. His move from radio to television presented both opportunities and challenges for maintaining the deep connection he established with listeners.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
The transition from radio to television required Provus to adapt his descriptive style. On radio, Provus excelled at painting pictures for listeners who couldn’t see the action. Television demanded a different approach.
Provus navigated the complex landscape of regional sports networks amid Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy issues. When blackouts threatened viewer access, he advocated for alternative viewing options through streaming platforms.
He worked closely with production teams to enhance the visual experience while maintaining his signature analytical style. This balance proved crucial during technical difficulties at remote broadcasts.
“The technical aspects shouldn’t get in the way of the story,” Provus noted during a network interview. “Whether fans are watching or listening, they deserve the same quality.”
Responsiveness to the Community
Provus actively engages with fans through social media and community events. Unlike his predecessor, he’s embraced digital platforms to extend conversations beyond broadcasts.
He regularly participates in fan engagement initiatives across Minnesota, understanding that connection happens both on and off air. When paired with color commentator Dan Gladden on radio, their chemistry translated to strong listener loyalty.
Provus instituted a “Fans First” approach to broadcasts, incorporating viewer questions and feedback during games. This interactive element has particularly resonated with younger audiences.
He’s conducted over 40 community baseball clinics in the past three years, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots connection.
Mentorship and Inspiration
Cory Provus has established himself not only as a respected voice on the Big Ten Network but also as a significant mentor in the broadcasting community. His experience across multiple platforms has positioned him to guide the next generation of sports broadcasters.
Influence on Upcoming Broadcasters
Provus frequently credits his own mentors for shaping his broadcasting career. His work alongside legendary broadcasters like Bob Uecker and Pat Hughes with the Chicago Cubs provided him with a foundation that he now passes on to others.
“Working with Bob taught me how to balance professionalism with personality,” Provus once noted during a Big Ten Network broadcast.
His mentorship style reflects lessons learned from Jim Powell, with whom he worked in Milwaukee before joining the Minnesota Twins broadcast team.
Young broadcasters seeking Provus’s guidance often receive practical advice about voice technique, game preparation, and storytelling—skills he honed during his time at WAER-FM at Syracuse University.
Educational Contributions
Beyond individual mentoring, Provus regularly contributes to educational initiatives in sports broadcasting. He has conducted workshops at Syracuse University, giving back to the institution that launched his career.
His appearances on podcasts and panel discussions about sports broadcasting serve as masterclasses for aspiring commentators.
Provus also participates in the Big Ten Network’s internship program, providing hands-on guidance to students interested in sports media.
During basketball season, he often invites broadcasting students to observe his pre-game preparation and sit in during live broadcasts.
The consistency of his approach—thorough research, respect for the game, and authentic delivery—serves as a practical template for those he mentors.
Affiliations and Collaborations
Cory Provus has built an impressive broadcasting career through strategic partnerships with major sports organizations and networks. His voice has become synonymous with both MLB radio broadcasts and college sports coverage across multiple platforms.
Major League Partnerships
Provus has cultivated strong relationships with several MLB franchises throughout his career. He began his major league journey with the Milwaukee Brewers, serving as their radio broadcaster before expanding his professional footprint.
Before joining the Brewers, Provus gained valuable experience with the Chicago Cubs organization and WGN Radio, establishing himself as a rising talent in sports broadcasting. This early Cubs connection helped build his reputation for detailed play-by-play coverage.
Since 2012, Provus has been the radio voice of the Minnesota Twins, where he’s developed a loyal following for his straightforward delivery and baseball insights. His MLB connections have provided him with a solid foundation while balancing his college sports responsibilities.
Network Synergy and Growth
Provus has become a key member of the Big Ten Network’s broadcasting lineup, handling play-by-play duties for both football and basketball coverage. His versatility has made him valuable across multiple sports seasons.
For the 2023-24 basketball season, Provus joined a distinguished roster of on-air talent including Kevin Kugler and Brandon Gaudin as part of the network’s comprehensive coverage.
His college sports portfolio extends beyond just the Big Ten Network. Provus also handles play-by-play announcing duties for college basketball on FOX, creating synergy between his various broadcasting roles. This cross-network presence has helped raise his profile in the competitive sports broadcasting landscape.
Impact on Regional Sports
Cory Provus has established himself as an influential voice across the Midwest, bridging coverage between collegiate and professional sports through his work with the Big Ten Network. His broadcasting approach has reshaped how fans connect with local teams and enhanced regional sports narratives.
Contribution to Midwestern Sports Culture
Provus’s versatility as a broadcaster has significantly impacted Midwestern sports culture, particularly in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois markets. His experience calling games for the Minnesota Twins and Milwaukee Brewers before joining the Big Ten Network’s broadcasting lineup created a unique cross-pollination between professional and collegiate sports coverage.
As a Chicago native, Provus brings authentic Midwestern sensibilities to his commentary. This regional understanding has made him particularly effective at contextualizing rivalries and traditions that matter to local fans.
His work has helped elevate coverage of smaller market teams. When discussing the St. Paul Saints or lesser-known Big Ten programs, Provus applies the same depth of analysis he brings to Cubs or Twins broadcasts.
Enhancing Local Team Narratives
Provus has developed a reputation for thorough research and storytelling that enhances local team narratives. He creates broadcasts that balance technical analysis with compelling human interest angles. Working alongside former players like LaTroy Hawkins, Provus showcases his commitment to highlighting regional storylines.
His approach to covering games at Target Field exemplifies his dedication to highlighting regional storylines. Provus frequently incorporates historical context and organizational developments that casual observers might miss.
| Team Coverage | Years | Notable Partners |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Twins | 2012-Present | LaTroy Hawkins |
| Milwaukee Brewers | 2009-2011 | Bob Uecker |
| Big Ten Network | 2023-Present | Various analysts |
His interviews regularly generate newsworthy content. For example, he discussed broadcast rights issues on local radio. This transparency has earned him credibility with fans concerned about accessing regional sports content.