Tom McGinnis – Philadelphia 76ers Celebrates 30 Years as Voice of the Team
For 25 years, Tom McGinnis has been the unmistakable radio voice of the Philadelphia 76ers, capturing the excitement and drama of every game with his distinctive play-by-play style. McGinnis has become a beloved fixture in Philadelphia basketball culture. He brings the energy of Sixers games to fans, whether broadcasting from the Wells Fargo Center or remotely during unusual circumstances like the Orlando bubble games during the pandemic. His passionate calls and deep knowledge of the game have made him as much a part of the 76ers experience as the players themselves.
At 59 years old, McGinnis recently received the prestigious Bill Campbell Award for sportscasting excellence from the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association. The award recognizes his contributions to the city’s rich sports broadcasting tradition. While many broadcasters come and go, McGinnis has maintained a remarkable longevity that few in the industry achieve. He has become synonymous with Sixers basketball for an entire generation of fans across the Delaware Valley.
The journey hasn’t always been smooth for McGinnis, who initially faced the challenge of following a beloved predecessor. But through consistency, authenticity, and a genuine love for the game, he earned the respect and admiration of the Philadelphia fanbase. This cemented his place as the voice of the Philadelphia 76ers for a quarter century and counting.
Contents
Career Overview
Tom McGinnis has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning multiple decades. He worked his way from small markets to become the distinctive voice of the Philadelphia 76ers. His journey showcases persistence and dedication to the craft of sports broadcasting.
Journey in Broadcasting
McGinnis’ career path took him through several states and sports before landing in the NBA. He started in Illinois before moving to South Carolina, where he gained valuable experience in various broadcasting roles. His versatility as a broadcaster is evident in his diverse background, which includes covering The Masters and calling ECHL hockey games.
This varied experience served as the foundation for McGinnis’ distinctive broadcasting style. Before joining the 76ers, he worked in the Continental Basketball Association. This provided him with basketball broadcasting expertise that would prove invaluable for his future NBA role.
McGinnis, now 59, has earned respect throughout the industry for his thorough preparation and energetic delivery.
The Rise to Philadelphia 76ers
McGinnis joined the Philadelphia 76ers organization in 1995 and has been the team’s radio voice for 25 consecutive years. Unlike many NBA broadcasts featuring analyst-commentator duos, McGinnis has primarily worked as a solo act throughout his time with the Sixers. He only had a brief partnership with former 76er Todd MacCulloch.
His longevity with the franchise speaks to both his talent and his connection with 76ers fans. In recognition of his excellence, McGinnis was named the PSWA Bill Campbell Award winner for sportscasting excellence by the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association.
McGinnis’ enthusiastic calls and deep knowledge of the game have made him an institution in Philadelphia sports. While Marc Zumoff long handled the television broadcasts, McGinnis has owned the radio airwaves for the team.
The Voice of Passion and Energy
Tom McGinnis brings unmistakable excitement to every Philadelphia 76ers broadcast with his distinctive vocal delivery and genuine enthusiasm for the game.
Signature Calls
McGinnis has developed several trademark phrases that 76ers fans instantly recognize. His booming “O-ho Yeah!” exclamation during big plays has become legendary among the Philadelphia faithful. When the Sixers make a run, his voice escalates with the momentum, creating an electric atmosphere even for those listening in their cars.
His rapid-fire delivery during fast breaks allows listeners to visualize the action perfectly. McGinnis meticulously describes player positioning and ball movement at a pace that matches the game itself.
After 25 years behind the microphone with the team, McGinnis has called countless memorable moments. His voice rising to match Joel Embiid’s game-winners or Allen Iverson’s crossovers has cemented these moments in Sixers lore.
What makes McGinnis special is his ability to maintain energy throughout an 82-game schedule. He brings the same passion to a Tuesday night regular season game as he does to a playoff thriller.
Fan Engagement
McGinnis has cultivated a strong connection with 76ers fans through multiple platforms. As the radio voice that makes “every car radio grill come alive”, he transforms mundane commutes into courtside experiences.
His broadcasts on 97.5 The Fanatic and 97.3 ESPN reach thousands of listeners who rely on his vivid descriptions to follow the action. Unlike many modern broadcasts, McGinnis works solo, handling both play-by-play and analysis with remarkable skill.
McGinnis engages with fans on Twitter (@McGinnisThomas), where he shares insights beyond his radio calls. This accessibility has helped build his reputation as a fan favorite.
Notable Games and Highlights
Tom McGinnis has witnessed countless memorable moments during his tenure as the voice of the Philadelphia 76ers. His distinctive play-by-play style has become synonymous with some of the franchise’s most thrilling victories and heartbreaking defeats.
Remarkable 76ers Moments
McGinnis’s call of Allen Iverson’s step-over Tyronn Lue in the 2001 NBA Finals remains etched in Sixers lore. That iconic moment punctuated Philadelphia’s only victory in their championship series against the Lakers.
The “Miracle at Madison” stands as another highlight in McGinnis’s broadcasting career. His passionate call of the Sixers’ improbable Game 5 comeback victory against the Knicks showcased his ability to capture the drama of pivotal playoff moments.
Joel Embiid’s buzzer-beater against Toronto in 2022 produced another memorable McGinnis call. Fans still replay his energetic “The Real MVP!” exclamation when Embiid’s game-winning three-pointer sealed a critical playoff victory.
McGinnis’s radio call of the 76ers’ victory over the Nets in Game 1 of their 2023 playoff series became an instant fan favorite.
Historical NBA Events
During his 25-year career with the Sixers, McGinnis has chronicled the franchise’s evolution through multiple eras. His tenure spans from the Iverson years through “The Process” to the current Embiid-led squad.
McGinnis provided the soundtrack to Philadelphia’s battles against Michael Jordan’s Bulls in the late 1990s. His descriptive style helped listeners visualize Jordan’s final games against the Sixers.
The broadcaster has witnessed firsthand the transformation of the Eastern Conference landscape. His calls during intense matchups with rivals like the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers have documented the shifting power dynamics in the NBA.
McGinnis has worked primarily as a solo broadcaster throughout his career, creating an intimate connection with listeners through his distinctive pace and vocal inflections. This approach has allowed his personality to shine during the biggest moments in recent Sixers history.
Community and Personal Life
Tom McGinnis has established deep roots in the Philadelphia area while maintaining connections to his Midwestern origins. His community presence extends beyond his recognizable voice on 76ers broadcasts to meaningful local involvement and charitable work.
Charity and Local Involvement
McGinnis has become a fixture in Philadelphia’s community events since joining the 76ers organization in 1995. He regularly participates in the team’s community outreach programs, using his prominent voice to support various causes throughout the city.
The radio announcer frequently appears at 76ers-sponsored charity events, lending his recognizable voice to fundraisers and awareness campaigns. His energy that makes “every car radio grill come alive” during games also brings enthusiasm to community gatherings.
McGinnis serves as an ambassador for the team at youth basketball clinics and school visits across the Philadelphia region. These appearances help strengthen the connection between the franchise and its fanbase.
His community work earned recognition in 2023 when he received the Bill Campbell Award from the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association. The award honors both his broadcasting excellence and community impact.
Early Life and Education
McGinnis grew up in the Midwest, developing his passion for sports and broadcasting from an early age. His formative years were shaped by experiences in Illinois and Iowa, where he established the foundation for his later career.
As a high school freshman, McGinnis formed a special bond with his father through their shared love of sports. This relationship would prove influential in his career trajectory.
Before reaching Philadelphia, McGinnis gained valuable experience in Cedar Rapids and other Midwestern markets. He paid his dues working smaller broadcasts, including a stint in minor league hockey where he spent two seasons – one in South Carolina – before landing his role with the 76ers.
His career path also included time covering G League basketball, providing him with comprehensive knowledge of the developmental system that feeds NBA talent.
Behind the Scenes
Tom McGinnis has been the voice of the Philadelphia 76ers on radio for 25 years, bringing the game to life for fans who can’t watch it on TV. His work involves much more than just calling plays.
The Broadcast Production
The broadcasting setup for McGinnis is quite sophisticated. When games were played in Orlando during the pandemic, McGinnis worked from South Philadelphia in a hockey broadcast booth. This shows his adaptability in challenging situations.
A typical broadcast day starts hours before tipoff. McGinnis arrives early to prepare statistics, study player information, and coordinate with producers. The production team includes audio engineers, producers, and statisticians who all work together to create a seamless broadcast.
During games, McGinnis sits at a table filled with monitors, statistics sheets, and team information. He must track all ten players on the court, identify substitutions instantly, and relay the action without missing a beat.
His famous rapid-fire delivery has become his trademark in Philadelphia 76ers radio broadcasts. The Continental Basketball Association experience prepared him well for the NBA pace.
Collaborations and Influences
McGinnis has worked with numerous broadcasting colleagues throughout his career. He’s formed particularly strong partnerships with Marc Zumoff and Matt Murphy, sharing insights on the art of play-by-play announcing.
His podcast appearances give fans a deeper look at his work. In one episode, McGinnis broke down the Sixers schedule and connected with Philadelphia native and former NBA referee Joey Crawford.
McGinnis cites several broadcasting legends as influences, including some from his early days covering the CBA’s Catbirds. He’s learned from interactions with coaches like Flip Saunders and famous moments like John Starks’ performances against the 76ers.
His preparation routine includes studying both teams extensively, reviewing pronunciation guides, and staying updated on league news. This attention to detail has made him one of the most respected radio voices in the NBA.
Future and Legacy
Tom McGinnis has cemented his place in Philadelphia 76ers history with his distinctive broadcasting style and unwavering dedication. His impact extends beyond the microphone, shaping both the future of sports broadcasting and inspiring the next generation of announcers.
The Evolution of Broadcasting
McGinnis has adapted seamlessly to technological changes throughout his 25-year career behind the mic. From traditional radio to digital streaming platforms, he’s maintained his signature high-energy delivery while embracing new media formats.
The broadcasting landscape continues to evolve, with McGinnis at the forefront. His work now reaches fans through podcasts, social media clips, and the team app—expanding his iconic calls beyond game days.
Digital metrics show McGinnis’s booming voice remains as relevant as ever. His calls regularly trend during big games, particularly in close contests when his enthusiasm peaks.
The Wells Fargo Center recently honored McGinnis with a special ceremony, recognizing his contributions to 76ers basketball culture.
Mentorship and Inspiration
McGinnis serves as a mentor to young broadcasters, sharing his expertise through industry workshops and university programs. His solo broadcast approach—handling both play-by-play and analysis—has become a case study for aspiring sports announcers.
Several current NBA broadcasters cite McGinnis as a key influence, particularly his ability to paint vivid pictures for radio listeners who can’t see the action. His preparation techniques and game notes have become teaching tools.
During the pandemic, McGinnis demonstrated remarkable versatility by broadcasting remotely when the team played in Orlando. This adaptability showcased his professionalism to younger colleagues.
The “McGinnis Method” of preparation has been documented in broadcasting textbooks, emphasizing his meticulous research and emotional connection to the game.
Impact on Players and Teams
Tom McGinnis, with his distinctive voice and passionate play-by-play style, has left an undeniable mark on the Philadelphia 76ers organization and its players. His ability to capture the excitement of games while providing insightful commentary has made him a beloved figure among both fans and team members.
Highlighting Star Athletes
McGinnis has a remarkable talent for amplifying the achievements of Sixers stars through his energetic calls. When Joel Embiid dominates in the paint, McGinnis’s voice rises with excitement, giving listeners a vivid picture of Embiid’s brilliance on the court.
His iconic “Are you kidding me?!” call has become synonymous with extraordinary plays, particularly when covering the 2000-2001 Sixers team, widely considered one of the franchise’s best.
During Ben Simmons’s tenure, McGinnis expertly narrated his unique playmaking abilities, helping fans appreciate Simmons’s court vision despite shooting limitations. Now, his descriptions of Tyrese Maxey’s speed and scoring flourishes have helped elevate the young guard’s profile.
Player Performance During McGinnis’s Tenure
| Player | Signature Skills | McGinnis Call |
|---|---|---|
| Joel Embiid | Post dominance | “The big fella with AUTHORITY!” |
| Ben Simmons | Playmaking | “Thread-the-needle pass!” |
| Tyrese Maxey | Speed, scoring | “Like a bolt of lightning!” |
Narrating Team Dynamics
McGinnis’s 25 years behind the mic have given him unique insight into team chemistry and coaching strategies. His broadcasts often reveal subtle aspects of play development that casual observers might miss.
During playoff runs, McGinnis’s analysis becomes particularly valuable. After a recent play-in tournament victory, he praised Nico Batum’s contributions and offered perspective on Nick Nurse’s coaching impact.
His relationships with coaches and players allow him to share genuine locker room sentiment with listeners. When tensions rise during losing streaks, McGinnis balances honest assessment with respectful commentary.
The 76ers Insiders podcast frequently features McGinnis’s observations about team cohesion and leadership dynamics. This makes him not just a narrator but a trusted interpreter of the team’s evolution over more than two decades.
