George Blaha – Detroit Pistons: Legendary Voice Celebrates 50 Years with Franchise
When it comes to Detroit Pistons basketball, one voice has become synonymous with the franchise’s history. George Blaha, the legendary play-by-play announcer, has been the soundtrack to Pistons basketball for nearly five decades. Since joining the team in the 1976-77 NBA season, Blaha has called more than 3,700 regular-season games. He only missed three games due to illness during his remarkable tenure.
The longevity of Blaha’s career with the Pistons is almost unmatched in professional sports broadcasting. Now in his 49th season behind the microphone, he has witnessed everything from the Bad Boys era championships to the 2004 title team to the current rebuilding phase. His selection to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025 serves as well-deserved recognition for a broadcaster who has become as much a part of the organization as any player who’s worn the uniform.
Blaha’s distinctive voice and catchphrases have become woven into the fabric of Michigan sports culture. Beyond his work with the Pistons, he has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s most respected broadcasters. He worked alongside color commentator Greg Kelser (“Special K”) to form one of the league’s longest-running announcing partnerships.
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Early Life and Education
George Blaha’s journey began in Detroit but took him through Iowa and back to Michigan, shaping his education and early interests in sports broadcasting long before he became the voice of the Pistons.
Iowa Beginnings and Notre Dame
Born in Detroit on March 26, 1945, George Blaha didn’t stay in the Motor City for long during his childhood. His family moved to Marshalltown, Iowa, where he spent his formative years developing his midwestern sensibilities and work ethic.
Blaha was raised in Marshalltown for much of his boyhood before eventually returning to Michigan as a teenager, settling in Grayling. This blend of midwestern upbringing would serve him well in his later career.
The young Blaha showed promising academic abilities, leading him to the prestigious University of Notre Dame for his undergraduate studies. The Fighting Irish experience would provide him with both educational foundations and exposure to high-level collegiate athletics.
Economics Degree and MBA
At Notre Dame, Blaha didn’t pursue communications or journalism as might be expected for a future broadcaster. Instead, he focused on economics, earning his B.A. in the field.
His academic journey didn’t stop with his undergraduate degree. Blaha demonstrated remarkable drive by continuing his education at the graduate level, obtaining an MBA. This business education would later prove valuable as he navigated the commercial aspects of sports broadcasting.
The combination of economics and business administration gave Blaha a unique perspective on sports as both cultural phenomena and business enterprises. This understanding has informed his broadcasting style throughout his career.
Early Interest in Sports
Blaha’s passion for sports, particularly Michigan teams, developed early in his life. He and his father attended Michigan State’s first-ever Big Ten game together, creating a special bond with Spartan athletics that would last a lifetime.
This early exposure to Michigan collegiate sports created a foundation for Blaha’s later broadcasting career. While many broadcasters might focus solely on professional leagues, Blaha developed an appreciation for both college and pro sports.
His understanding of both Michigan and Michigan State sports cultures would serve him well as he navigated the complex sports loyalties in the state. This broader perspective helped him connect with diverse listening audiences throughout his later broadcasting career.
Broadcasting Career
George Blaha has established himself as one of the most iconic voices in NBA broadcasting history. His distinctive style and longevity have made him synonymous with Detroit Pistons basketball for generations of fans.
Start of the Journey
George Blaha’s broadcasting career began well before he became the voice of the Pistons. Born in Detroit, Blaha developed his passion for sports broadcasting early in life. He honed his skills through education and smaller broadcasting opportunities before getting his big break.
His early work included local radio and television assignments that helped him develop the distinct play-by-play style that would later become his trademark. These formative experiences shaped his approach to sports broadcasting.
Blaha’s natural talent for describing the action with clarity and excitement set him apart from his peers. His preparation and knowledge of the game were evident even in these early broadcasts.
Association with Detroit Pistons
Blaha joined the Detroit Pistons in the 1976-77 NBA season, beginning what would become one of the longest-running relationships between a broadcaster and a professional sports team. His timing was perfect as he arrived just as the franchise was looking to establish a stronger identity.
For nearly five decades, Blaha has been the consistent voice through the organization’s ups and downs. By 2025, he has called more than 3,700 regular-season games for the franchise.
His longevity is even more impressive considering the changes in team ownership, coaches, and players throughout his tenure. Blaha has witnessed and described the Bad Boys era, the Going to Work championship team, and rebuilding periods.
In February 2025, his contributions to basketball were formally recognized when he was selected for the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Radio and Television Contributions
Blaha’s versatility as a broadcaster allowed him to seamlessly transition between radio and television throughout his career. His work spans multiple media platforms and networks, adapting to changing broadcast technologies while maintaining his distinctive style.
On television, Blaha’s precise descriptions help viewers understand the nuances of the game. His television work has appeared on various networks that have held Pistons broadcasting rights over the decades.
His radio play-by-play creates a vivid picture for listeners, allowing them to visualize the action through his words. Blaha’s voice on WJR and other radio stations has been a constant companion for Pistons fans on the go.
Beyond the Pistons, Blaha has also served as the play-by-play radio voice for Michigan State football, showcasing his versatility across different sports.
Signature Phrases and Style
Blaha’s broadcasting style is characterized by his unmistakable catchphrases that have become part of Pistons folklore. Most notably, his exclamation “Count that baby and a foul!” erupts whenever a Pistons player scores while being fouled.
His colorful nicknames for players have added personality to broadcasts. These monikers often highlight a player’s distinctive skills or characteristics, creating an immediate connection with fans.
Blaha’s delivery balances enthusiasm with professionalism. He brings energy to exciting moments without overshadowing the game itself. His clear diction and precise vocabulary make his broadcasts accessible to casual and devoted fans alike.
His preparation before games ensures that statistical context and player backgrounds are seamlessly integrated into the broadcast flow.
Notable Games and Moments
Throughout his career, Blaha has called many of the most significant moments in Pistons history. His voice provided the soundtrack to the 1989 and 1990 NBA Championship runs, capturing the emotion of those historic achievements.
The 2004 championship season featured some of Blaha’s most memorable calls, particularly during the upset victory over the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers. His description of the final moments of Game 5 remains etched in fans’ memories.
Playoff intensity brings out Blaha’s best work. His voice rises with the stakes, conveying the pressure and excitement of postseason basketball. Close games showcase his ability to maintain composure while communicating the drama unfolding on the court.
Individual player milestones—from Isiah Thomas’s scoring records to Ben Wallace’s defensive dominance—have all been immortalized through Blaha’s distinctive voice.
Legacy and Honors
George Blaha’s impact on Detroit basketball extends far beyond the broadcast booth. His distinctive voice and meticulous approach to calling Pistons games have earned him numerous accolades throughout his storied career.
Michigan Sports Hall of Fame Induction
Blaha’s contributions to Michigan sports were formally recognized with his induction into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. The honor came after decades of service to both professional and collegiate sports broadcasting in the state.
His induction ceremony highlighted his remarkable tenure as the voice of the Pistons, spanning multiple NBA Championship eras. Blaha’s call of key moments during the “Bad Boys” championship runs in 1989 and 1990 were specifically mentioned during his induction.
Fellow inductees and basketball legends praised Blaha’s ability to capture the emotion of critical games while maintaining journalistic integrity. His preparation and attention to detail have been hallmarks of his broadcasting approach.
Ty Tyson Award for Excellence
The Detroit Sports Media Association bestowed their prestigious Ty Tyson Award upon Blaha, recognizing his exceptional broadcasting standards. This award, named after the legendary Detroit Tigers announcer, celebrates excellence in sports broadcasting.
Blaha’s receipt of the award acknowledged his consistency and professionalism over a career spanning more than four decades. The selection committee highlighted his ability to adapt his broadcasting style through different eras of basketball.
His acceptance speech for the award reflected his humble approach, crediting his colleagues and the Pistons organization for much of his success. Blaha’s commitment to accuracy and fairness in reporting has made him a model for aspiring sports broadcasters.
Recognition by Detroit Sports Media Association
Beyond the Ty Tyson Award, the Detroit Sports Media Association has repeatedly honored Blaha for his contributions to sports journalism. In 2023, they presented him with their Lifetime Achievement Award.
The organization specifically praised his longevity and consistency, noting that few broadcasters maintain such high standards for so many years. During a special ceremony, they highlighted his perfect attendance record – missing just a handful of broadcasts in over 40 years.
Blaha received a standing ovation at the Palace during a halftime ceremony marking his 40th anniversary with the team. The event included video tributes from NBA legends who had passed through Detroit during his tenure.
Impact on Michigan Sports Culture
Blaha’s influence extends beyond professional basketball into the fabric of Michigan sports culture. His dual role as broadcaster for both the Pistons and Michigan State football has made him a unifying voice across the state.
His catchphrases like “Count that baby and a foul!” have entered the local lexicon. Young broadcasters throughout Michigan study his technique and delivery as a gold standard in sports announcing.
Perhaps his greatest achievement is receiving the 2025 Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes his outstanding contributions to basketball broadcasting and cements his place among the greatest voices in NBA history.
Blaha’s connection with multiple generations of fans has helped maintain the Pistons’ relevance even during rebuilding seasons. His ability to educate new fans while engaging longtime supporters demonstrates his unique understanding of basketball’s place in Detroit’s identity.
Professional Relationships
George Blaha has built meaningful connections throughout his lengthy tenure with the Detroit Pistons. His professional relationships have helped define his legacy as the voice of the franchise and contributed to his selection to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Collaboration with Pistons Players
Blaha’s relationship with Pistons players spans generations. He began calling games in the 1970s. His rapport with stars like Dave Bing during his early broadcasting days established his credibility among the team.
When the “Bad Boys” era emerged, Blaha developed particularly strong connections with Bill Laimbeer and Rick Mahorn. He often captured their physical playing style with his distinctive vocabulary. Players appreciated his fair assessments during both winning and losing seasons.
Bob Lanier, one of the franchise’s greatest centers, regularly praised Blaha’s ability to articulate the nuances of post play during broadcasts. Years later, Richard Hamilton noted how Blaha’s calls of his mid-range jumpers became a soundtrack for Pistons fans.
Many former players make appearances on Blaha’s broadcasts when visiting Detroit, showing the mutual respect that exists.
Working Alongside Fellow Announcers
Blaha’s most significant broadcasting partnership has been with Greg Kelser, who has served as television analyst for 25 seasons. Their chemistry has made them one of the best duos in Pistons history, even earning them recognition alongside legendary player combinations.
The Blaha-Kelser pairing works because of their complementary styles. Blaha handles play-by-play with precision while Kelser adds technical analysis from his playing perspective. Their relationship extends beyond the broadcast booth, with genuine friendship evident in their on-air interactions.
Despite some suggestions that both announcers might be past their prime, Pistons fans remain largely supportive of the duo. They particularly hope that the team’s rebuild will give them opportunities to call meaningful games again.
Blaha has maintained professionalism with network changes and different broadcast partners throughout his career, which began on WJR radio in 1976.
Personal Life
Beyond the microphone, George Blaha has navigated life’s challenges while maintaining deep connections to family and community. His personal journey reveals the man behind the iconic voice that Pistons fans have known for decades.
Family and Private Life
George Blaha currently resides in Troy, Michigan with his wife Mary. Though born in Detroit on March 26, 1945, his early years were spent in Iowa before returning to Michigan during his teenage years.
The veteran broadcaster has maintained a relatively private personal life despite his high-profile career spanning nearly five decades with the Pistons.
Blaha’s educational background includes an impressive academic achievement. He graduated from the University of Michigan with an MBA. This business education provided a foundation that complemented his broadcasting talents.
His commitment to balancing professional demands with family life has been a hallmark of his character throughout his lengthy career in sports media.
Health Challenges
In March 2022, Blaha faced a significant health scare that temporarily took him away from the broadcast booth. He underwent a heart procedure that required immediate medical attention.
The procedure, which took place on March 15, 2022, forced Blaha to step away from his play-by-play duties for the remainder of the 2021-22 season. Doctors discovered the heart issue during a routine medical examination.
Six weeks post-surgery, Blaha showed remarkable progress in his recovery. His rehabilitation regimen included walking at least 2,000 steps daily as prescribed by his medical team.
Former Michigan basketball coach John Beilein played an unexpected role in Blaha’s health journey, helping to identify the heart condition that required intervention.
Community Involvement
Throughout his career, Blaha has established himself as more than just a broadcaster but as a fixture in Michigan’s community landscape. His longevity with the Pistons organization has made him a trusted voice across generations of basketball fans.
Blaha’s commitment to Michigan extends beyond professional obligations. He has maintained strong ties to his alma mater, the University of Michigan, supporting various university initiatives over the years.
His annual charity golf outing has become a notable event in Michigan’s philanthropic calendar. The event typically attracts participation from notable Pistons figures past and present.
Blaha’s community presence reflects his understanding that a sportscaster’s influence extends beyond game calls and analysis, serving as a connective thread in the fabric of Detroit sports culture.
Off the Court Activities
George Blaha’s impact extends well beyond his play-by-play duties with the Detroit Pistons. His recognizable voice and personality have made him a fixture in Michigan media circles and a respected ambassador for basketball.
Involvement in Commercials
Blaha’s distinct voice has made him a natural choice for local businesses seeking a trusted spokesperson. For decades, Michigan residents have heard his recognizable delivery promoting everything from car dealerships to financial services.
His commercial work often references his Pistons connection, with taglines that occasionally mirror his on-air catchphrases. Many Metro Detroit residents can instantly identify his voice from radio spots alone.
The longevity of his commercial partnerships speaks to his credibility with Michigan consumers. Some businesses have maintained relationships with Blaha for over 20 years, creating a sense of familiarity and trust with audiences.
Contributions to Collegiate Sports
While known primarily for his NBA work, Blaha has maintained deep ties to collegiate athletics. He’s served as the radio voice for Michigan State football since 1971, creating a remarkable dual career spanning two major sports.
His preparation for college broadcasts mirrors his NBA approach – meticulous research, player background knowledge, and an emphasis on accurate storytelling.
Blaha’s connection to Michigan State has made him an unofficial ambassador for Spartan athletics. His position has allowed him to mentor broadcasting students and speak at university functions.
| Blaha’s Collegiate Broadcasting Career | |
|---|---|
| Years with Michigan State Football | 50+ (since 1971) |
| Bowl Games Called | 30+ |
| Conference Championships Covered | 9 |
Publications and Interviews
Though Blaha is not primarily known as an author, he has contributed to several publications about Detroit basketball history. His insights have been featured in books chronicling the Bad Boys era and the 2004 championship team.
Media outlets regularly seek Blaha for retrospectives on Pistons history. They do this because he has institutional knowledge and a great storytelling ability. This makes him an invaluable source for The Athletic and other sports publications covering Detroit basketball.
Blaha’s interviews often provide behind-the-scenes perspectives that only someone with his tenure could offer. He balances respect for players and coaches with honest basketball assessment.
In recent years, podcasts have increasingly featured Blaha sharing stories from his broadcasting career. This helps preserve his unique perspective on basketball history for future generations.
