Lamar Hurd – Portland Trail Blazers Analyst Celebrates Third Year in Broadcasting Role
Lamar Hurd has become a familiar voice for basketball fans across the Pacific Northwest. Since the 2019-2020 season, Hurd has been the Portland Trail Blazers television analyst. He brings insightful commentary and basketball knowledge to viewers during broadcasts. His background as a former Oregon State player gives him a unique perspective on the game.
Hurd’s broadcasting style combines technical analysis with an approachable delivery that helps casual fans understand the nuances of basketball while still satisfying die-hard Blazers supporters. His work extends beyond just game commentary, as he’s built a following of over 8,600 Instagram followers where he shares both professional and personal content.
Recently, Hurd appeared on the We Like the Blazers podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about broadcasting and humility. This conversation revealed the depth of thought he brings to his role with the Trail Blazers organization, further cementing his position as a respected voice in Portland basketball circles.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Lamar Hurd’s journey to becoming a Portland Trail Blazers color analyst began in Texas before his collegiate career in Oregon shaped his basketball knowledge and communication skills.
Childhood in Houston
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Hurd developed his basketball talents at an early age. His commitment to the sport became evident when he moved out of his mother’s house as a sixth grader to live with and play basketball under a mentor.
This bold decision set him on a path toward basketball excellence. Hurd eventually attended Heritage Christian High School in Cleveland, Texas, where he graduated in 2002.
During his senior year, Hurd put up impressive numbers, averaging 9.8 points, 9.7 assists, and 8 rebounds per game. These statistics showcased his well-rounded game and particularly his playmaking abilities as a point guard.
College Basketball at Oregon State University
Hurd’s talents earned him a scholarship to Oregon State University, where he became the starting point guard from 2002 to 2006. His decision to move from Texas to Oregon represented a significant geographical shift.
At OSU, Hurd developed into a solid floor general for the Beavers basketball program. His court vision and leadership qualities helped him navigate the competitive landscape of college basketball.
In 2006, Hurd earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Oregon State University. This educational background would later prove valuable for his broadcasting career.
His time in Corvallis not only refined his basketball IQ but also laid the foundation for his future career as a broadcaster, combining his communications education with his intimate knowledge of the game.
Professional Career
Lamar Hurd’s professional journey took him from the basketball court to the broadcast booth, where he established himself as a respected voice in NBA commentary.
Transition from Player to Analyst
Lamar Hurd’s path to becoming a television analyst wasn’t direct. After his playing days at Oregon State University, where he served as point guard for the Beavers, Hurd stayed connected to basketball in various capacities.
He leveraged his deep knowledge of the game to transition into media work. His understanding of basketball strategy and player development made him a natural fit for analysis roles.
Before joining the Blazers, Hurd gained valuable experience working with college basketball broadcasts. This foundation helped him develop the communication skills necessary for television work.
His playing experience gave him credibility with viewers. Hurd’s ability to break down complex basketball concepts into accessible explanations quickly became one of his trademark skills.
Joining the Broadcasting Team
The 2019-20 season marked Hurd’s fourth year as Portland Trail Blazers Television Analyst. In this role, he provides insightful basketball analysis during Blazers broadcasts, bringing technical expertise and enthusiasm to the position.
Hurd works alongside the play-by-play announcer to form a broadcasting duo that Portland fans have embraced. His commentary style balances technical basketball knowledge with accessible explanations for casual viewers.
He’s known for picking up on subtle aspects of the game that others might miss. As one fan noted on Reddit, he “brings a breadth of basketball knowledge to each telecast” and “picks up on so many things.”
Hurd identifies himself simply as “Portland Trail Blazers tv analyst” on his social media profiles, showing his dedication to this role. His Oregon State connections and local ties have helped him connect with the Pacific Northwest basketball community.
Role with the Blazers
Lamar Hurd has established himself as an integral part of the Portland Trail Blazers organization through his broadcasting work. His analytical skills and basketball knowledge have made him a fan favorite in the Pacific Northwest.
As a Courtside Reporter
Lamar Hurd serves as the Television Analyst for the Portland Trail Blazers, a position he has held with distinction since the 2016-17 NBA season. The 2024-25 season marks his ninth season with the organization, showcasing his longevity and value to the franchise.
Hurd brings a unique perspective to his role, combining his playing experience with strong analytical skills. He breaks down complex basketball concepts into digestible information for viewers at home.
His approach to broadcasting focuses on being educational while remaining entertaining. Viewers appreciate his ability to explain the nuances of plays and strategies without talking down to the audience.
The Blazers’ Broadcasting Crew
Hurd works alongside veteran play-by-play announcer Kevin Calabro, forming one of the more respected broadcasting duos in the league. Their chemistry is evident during broadcasts, with Calabro handling the play-calling while Hurd provides timely analysis.
The broadcasting team works cohesively to deliver comprehensive coverage of Blazers games. Hurd’s position as Television Analyst allows him to provide in-depth perspectives on team strategies and player performances.
When appearing in studio segments, Hurd demonstrates his versatility by transitioning seamlessly from game analysis to broader discussions about the team’s direction and performance trends.
Special Contributions
Beyond his regular broadcasting duties, Hurd has made significant contributions to the Blazers organization through community engagement. He approaches his platform with the goal of uplifting the community, demonstrating his commitment to using his visibility for positive impact.
Hurd participated in the “We Like the Blazers” podcast, where he engaged in a wide-ranging conversation about basketball and his broadcasting philosophy. This appearance highlighted his accessibility to fans.
His social media presence, including his Instagram account with over 8,600 followers, allows him to connect directly with Blazers fans. He maintains a professional online persona while sharing insights about the team.
Broadcaster Profile
Lamar Hurd brings a unique combination of basketball expertise and engaging personality to his role as the Portland Trail Blazers television analyst. His approach to broadcasting reflects both his playing background and commitment to positive commentary.
Style and Methodology
Hurd’s broadcasting style features a distinct blend of technical analysis and approachable explanation. As a former Oregon State University player, he breaks down complex basketball concepts in ways that new fans can understand while satisfying hardcore enthusiasts.
What sets Hurd apart is his trademark positivity. Unlike commentators who focus on mistakes, he consistently highlights player development and team growth. This approach, sometimes called the “Hurd Mentality,” emphasizes constructive analysis over criticism.
His preparation is meticulous. Before each broadcast, Hurd studies hours of game film and statistical breakdowns. This homework shows in his commentary through specific references to player tendencies and strategic adjustments.
Hurd joined the Blazers after building his reputation at the Pac-12 Network and ESPN, where he honed his basketball analysis skills calling college games.
Audience Engagement
Hurd excels at connecting with viewers through both traditional and modern platforms. During broadcasts, he creates memorable moments with his enthusiasm for spectacular plays while maintaining educational commentary.
His active presence on social media extends his connection with fans beyond game days. Hurd regularly responds to viewer questions and participates in team-sponsored events.
What truly distinguishes Hurd is his community involvement. His broadcasting work represents just one facet of his Portland presence. He leverages his visibility to support youth basketball initiatives throughout Oregon.
Viewers consistently praise Hurd’s balanced approach. He avoids hometown bias while still conveying appropriate excitement for Blazers successes. This objectivity, combined with genuine basketball knowledge, has earned respect from fans and industry peers alike.
The broadcasting duo Hurd forms with play-by-play announcer has become one of the most respected regional sports pairings in the NBA.
Impact of Technology on Broadcasting
Technology has revolutionized how Trail Blazers games reach fans, with Lamar Hurd at the forefront of embracing these innovations. The team has invested heavily in creating “next-gen” broadcasts that deliver enhanced viewing experiences through both visual and audio improvements.
Advancements in Audio and Video
The Portland Trail Blazers have significantly upgraded their broadcast technology, positioning themselves as leaders in NBA broadcasting innovation. Their next-gen broadcasts feature advanced analytics, upgraded graphics, and Second Spectrum player tracking that enriches the viewing experience.
Hurd has adapted his commentary style to incorporate these technological advancements, working seamlessly with play-by-play broadcaster Kevin Calabro to explain complex statistics in accessible ways.
The team has also implemented augmented reality graphics during live broadcasts. These AR elements allow viewers to see real-time player statistics, shooting patterns, and defensive coverage in ways previously impossible.
Additional camera angles have been introduced, giving fans perspectives from above the backboard and along the baseline that provide insights into plays developing.
Remote Broadcasts During the Pandemic
When COVID-19 disrupted the 2020 NBA season, Hurd demonstrated remarkable adaptability by transitioning to remote broadcasting setups. Working from makeshift home studios, he maintained professional-quality analysis despite the technical challenges.
The pandemic forced innovation in how commentary teams operated, with Hurd often calling games without being physically present in arenas. This required developing new communication systems between producers, directors, and on-air talent.
Despite these hurdles, the Trail Blazers broadcast team managed to deliver compelling coverage. Hurd’s ability to analyze plays through monitors rather than live in-person viewing showcased his deep understanding of basketball fundamentals.
The expanded broadcast reach throughout Oregon and Washington that resulted from these pandemic-era adaptations has continued into the post-COVID era, bringing Hurd’s insightful commentary to a wider audience than ever before.
Acts of Kindness
Hurd’s commitment to Portland’s youth programs stands out as particularly impactful. Since settling in Portland nearly two decades ago, he has been closely involved with various youth initiatives. These programs focus on mentorship, education, and using basketball as a vehicle for personal development.
During holiday seasons, Hurd regularly participates in Blazers’ community outreach events. He distributes toys and essential items to underserved families. His hands-on approach shows his dedication isn’t merely for cameras.
At local schools, Hurd makes frequent appearances as a motivational speaker. He draws from his own journey through collegiate athletics and broadcasting to inspire the next generation. These visits typically include basketball clinics where he shares both technical skills and life lessons.
Social Media Presence
Hurd leverages his social platforms to highlight community stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. His Instagram account regularly features behind-the-scenes moments with Trail Blazers players engaging with fans and community members.
During the annual SHIFT fashion design event, Hurd participated alongside colleague Brook Olzendam. They owned the photobooth and helped raise funds for arts education. This represents his willingness to step outside traditional sports contexts for community causes.
His Twitter feed serves as a real-time community bulletin board, promoting local businesses, charity events, and youth basketball tournaments. Hurd’s authentic voice comes through clearly, avoiding the corporate tone that some sports personalities adopt.
Hurd maintains an active presence at community festivals and neighborhood gatherings. He often documents these experiences to showcase Portland’s vibrant culture to his followers.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Lamar Hurd has built strong working relationships throughout his broadcasting career with the Portland Trail Blazers. His collaborative approach and broadcasting style have made him a respected voice in NBA commentary circles.
Work with Former Players and Analysts
Hurd’s partnership with veteran broadcaster Kevin Calabro stands as the cornerstone of his Blazers tenure. The duo developed their chemistry gradually, with Hurd acknowledging the learning curve when they first began working together.
P.J. Carlesimo, former NBA coach turned analyst, has made several guest appearances alongside Hurd during special broadcast events. Their contrasting perspectives—Hurd’s analytical approach and Carlesimo’s coaching insights—create compelling viewing experiences.
Collaborations with former players like Steve Smith have enhanced Hurd’s basketball analysis. Smith’s playing experience complements Hurd’s broadcasting expertise during pre-game and halftime segments.
| Collaboration Partner | Role | Notable Projects |
|---|---|---|
| Kevin Calabro | Play-by-play announcer | Regular season broadcasts |
| P.J. Carlesimo | Guest analyst | Playoff special coverage |
| Steve Smith | Studio analyst | Pre-game breakdowns |
Engagement with Other Networks
Beyond his primary duties with the Blazers, Hurd has made appearances on national broadcasts. His work with ESPN has included guest analyst spots during West Coast games, where his familiarity with Western Conference teams proves valuable.
Root Sports (formerly Fox Sports Northwest) features Hurd in regional basketball coverage beyond just Blazers games. These additional assignments have expanded his visibility throughout the Pacific Northwest sports scene.
Will Perdue and Hurd collaborated during the 2023-24 season on a tactical breakdown series examining Western Conference defensive schemes. Their analysis highlighted the evolution of NBA defensive strategies through detailed film study.
Hurd occasionally contributes to basketball podcasts and digital content platforms, further extending his broadcasting portfolio beyond traditional television outlets.
Accolades and Achievements
Lamar Hurd has built an impressive career spanning from his college basketball days to his current role with the Portland Trail Blazers. His journey includes noteworthy accomplishments both on the court and behind the microphone.
Recognition within the NBA
Hurd’s basketball career began at Oregon State University, where he served as the starting point guard from 2002-06. During his collegiate career, he earned recognition for his performance on the court.
He received All-Pac-10 honors during his time with the Beavers, showcasing his talents in one of college basketball’s premier conferences. Hurd’s leadership as point guard helped establish his reputation as a basketball mind who understood the game’s intricacies.
After graduating with a BS in Communications in 2006, Hurd transitioned from playing to analyzing the game, where his basketball IQ continued to serve him well.
Achievements in Broadcasting
Hurd’s broadcasting career has flourished since his playing days. He developed his analyst skills working with the Pac-12 Network, where he established himself as a respected college basketball analyst.
His biggest break came when joining the Portland Trail Blazers broadcast team. As the team’s color commentator, Hurd has become known for his insightful analysis and engaging commentary style.
Recent broadcasts have highlighted Hurd’s unique ability to connect with viewers. During the 2024-25 NBA season, he gained attention for a memorable segment involving Deandre Ayton dressed as The Grinch, demonstrating his ability to balance analysis with entertainment.
Hurd’s broadcasting achievements have made him a fan favorite in Portland, where viewers appreciate his basketball knowledge and personable approach to game commentary.
Hurd’s Philosophy and Influence
Lamar Hurd approaches his role as Portland Trail Blazers Television Analyst with a clear guiding principle. He focuses on uplifting the community through his platform, keeping this goal central to his work.
Now in his sixth season with the Blazers broadcast team, Hurd has developed what fans affectionately call the “Hurd Mentality” – a blend of basketball insight, humility, and relentless positivity.
His influence extends beyond game analysis. As an Oregon State University board trustee, Hurd maintains connections to his collegiate roots while serving the broader Oregon community.
The former OSU guard brings authenticity to broadcasts that resonates with viewers. His genuine approach creates moments of connection, like when he enthusiastically spent multiple minutes discussing Deandre Ayton’s Grinch costume during a broadcast – a small moment that exemplifies his engaging style.
Hurd’s Broadcasting Impact
| Area | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Analysis | Basketball strategy and player development insights |
| Community | Youth mentorship and Oregon State University involvement |
| Broadcast | Engaging, positive commentary style |
| Platform Use | Focus on uplifting stories and community impact |
Colleagues praise Hurd’s preparedness and basketball knowledge. His playing experience at Oregon State provides credibility, while his communication skills make complex game elements accessible to casual fans.
Future Directions
Lamar Hurd’s trajectory with the Portland Trail Blazers broadcasting team shows promise for both organizational growth and personal development. His unique perspective as a former player combined with his broadcasting skills positions him well for what lies ahead.
Goals for the Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers organization clearly values Hurd’s contributions to their broadcasting team. After winning back-to-back NW Emmy Awards alongside Kevin Calabro, Hurd has cemented his position as a key voice for the franchise.
His analytical approach will likely play an important role as the team rebuilds. The Blazers management appears to be investing in quality broadcasting talent to maintain fan engagement during this transition period.
Hurd’s chemistry with head coach Chauncey Billups, as evidenced by their “Coach’s Corner” segments, suggests the organization wants to strengthen the connection between coaching staff and media team.
The Blazers seem committed to Hurd for the long term, recognizing his ability to communicate complex basketball concepts to their audience in an accessible way.
Personal Aspirations in Broadcasting
Hurd’s broadcasting philosophy emphasizes humility and authenticity. His recent appearance on the We Like the Blazers podcast highlighted this.
With a growing social media presence (over 8,600 Instagram followers), Hurd is building his personal brand while maintaining his connection to the Trail Blazers organization.
His broadcasting style balances technical analysis with approachable presentation. This versatility could open doors to national broadcasting opportunities while maintaining his regional roots.
Hurd’s background as a former player gives him unique credibility. This perspective allows him to offer insights that resonate with both casual fans and basketball purists.
The respect he commands from coaches and players suggests potential for expanded roles beyond game analysis, possibly including special features or documentary work.
