Travis Demers – Portland Trail Blazers Radio Voice Celebrates Fifth Anniversary with Team
When basketball fans in Portland tune in to hear the Trail Blazers play, the voice they hear belongs to Travis Demers, the team’s radio play-by-play announcer. Demers joined the Blazers broadcast team officially in 2019, making his mark as an energetic storyteller who brings NBA action to life over the airwaves. His ability to paint a vivid picture of the game while maintaining the perfect balance of analysis and excitement has made him a staple in Portland sports media.
Beyond his play-by-play duties, Demers stays connected to fans as host of “The Rip City Drive with Travis and Chad” on NBC Sports Northwest and 620 Rip City Radio. His path to becoming the voice of Portland’s beloved NBA franchise wasn’t overnight—he paid his dues covering various sports throughout the Pacific Northwest before landing the coveted Blazers position. The New York native brings East Coast energy with Pacific Northwest sensibility, creating a broadcasting style uniquely suited for Portland’s passionate basketball fanbase.
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Career Overview
Travis Demers has built an impressive broadcasting career through persistence and passion, eventually securing his dream position as the radio voice of the Portland Trail Blazers. His journey spans from college education to local sports coverage, culminating in one of basketball’s most coveted announcing roles.
Early Career and Education
Demers laid the foundation for his broadcasting career at Long Island University, where he honed his communication skills and developed his distinctive announcing style. The New York native’s education provided the technical background necessary for sports broadcasting, but it was his relentless work ethic that truly set him apart.
After graduation, Demers relocated to Portland, Oregon, where he began building his portfolio in local sports media. He cut his teeth covering various sports, demonstrating versatility and developing the descriptive play-by-play style that would later become his trademark.
These early years weren’t glamorous, but they were essential. Demers worked multiple jobs in the industry, refusing to give up on his dream despite the challenges of breaking into sports broadcasting.
Journey to the NBA
Demers’ path to becoming the Portland Trail Blazers’ radio voice was anything but conventional. He spent years building his reputation in the Portland sports scene, covering everything from college basketball to local professional teams.
His big break came when he was called upon to fill in for Brian Wheeler, the longtime Blazers radio announcer who took medical leave. Demers seized this opportunity, calling 57 games during the 2018-19 season.
When Wheeler departed, Demers’ perseverance paid off. In September 2019, the Trail Blazers officially named him their full-time radio play-by-play announcer, making him just the fourth person to hold this position in franchise history.
His appointment was widely celebrated as a story of determination, proving that persistence in pursuing one’s passion can lead to success.
Rip City Radio and Podcasts
Beyond game broadcasts, Demers has expanded his presence across Portland’s sports media landscape. He became a key voice on Rip City Radio 620, where his insightful analysis and approachable style resonated with Blazers fans.
His radio work includes hosting “The Rip City Drive,” a popular afternoon show covering Trail Blazers news and broader NBA topics. Demers’ broadcasting talents extend to podcasting as well, where he discusses his role with the team and provides behind-the-scenes insights.
What sets Demers apart is his unique connection to the team. Not only does he call the games, but he’s also developed a relationship with the organization that allows him input on team-related matters, including uniform designs. This multifaceted involvement has made him a true fixture in Rip City’s basketball culture.
Role With The Trail Blazers
Travis Demers has served as the primary radio voice for the Portland Trail Blazers since 2019, bringing Rip City to life for fans tuning in across the airwaves. His distinctive play-by-play style has made him a recognizable fixture in the organization’s broadcast team.
Successor to Brian Wheeler
Travis Demers stepped into some considerably large shoes when he became the radio play-by-play announcer for the Portland Trail Blazers, taking over for the legendary Brian Wheeler. Wheeler had been the voice of the franchise for 21 seasons before health issues forced him to step away.
After filling in for Wheeler during the 2018-19 season, Demers officially earned the permanent position in 2019. This made him just the third full-time radio play-by-play broadcaster in the team’s history, following in the footsteps of Wheeler and Bill Schonely.
For Demers, landing this role was the culmination of a broadcasting journey and what he has often called his “dream job” in the NBA.
Broadcast Style and Approach
Demers has now entered his sixth full season with the Trail Blazers in 2024-25. His broadcasting approach combines passionate energy with detailed analysis, making radio listeners feel connected to the action they can’t see.
His preparation involves extensive research on players and teams, allowing him to weave relevant statistics and background information into his real-time commentary. Demers’ call of critical game moments has helped cement his place in the Rip City community.
Beyond game calls, Demers launched the Section 113 podcast in 2022, expanding his connection with fans. He also maintains an active presence on social media, where he interacts with the Blazers fanbase and shares insights about the team.
The broadcaster travels with the team for all 82 regular-season games plus playoffs, providing consistent coverage that has helped him build strong relationships with players and coaches.
Impact on Rip City Culture
Travis Demers has woven himself into the fabric of Portland’s basketball culture since becoming the Trail Blazers’ radio voice. His distinctive style resonates with fans while honoring the rich tradition of Rip City.
Connection With Fans
Demers has cultivated a genuine rapport with Blazers faithful across the Portland area. After replacing the legendary Brian Wheeler in 2019, he became the official team radio voice following a season as an interim announcer.
His approach mixes technical basketball knowledge with authentic enthusiasm that resonates with longtime supporters and new fans alike. This connection extends to social media, where Demers maintains an active presence on Twitter engaging directly with the Rip City community.
The broadcaster’s ability to paint vivid pictures of game action for radio listeners has been particularly valuable. He brings games to life for fans commuting through Portland’s traffic or listening at home.
Demers often shares glimpses of his family life, including his children Lincoln and Lawson, creating a relatable persona beyond basketball.
Influence Beyond Broadcasting
Demers has expanded his impact through community outreach initiatives across Portland and nearby communities like Sherwood. His participation in Trail Blazers community events has strengthened the team’s local presence.
The broadcaster frequently appears at fan meet-and-greets, charity functions, and youth basketball camps. These appearances help strengthen the connection between the team and its supporters throughout Oregon.
His work with Rip City Radio (620 AM), the team’s flagship station, extends beyond game calls. Demers contributes to basketball discussions that keep fans engaged during the off-season.
His broadcasting style emphasizes the unique “Rip City” identity that unites generations of Portland basketball fans. This approach helps preserve the special bond that defines the Trail Blazers community.
Beyond Trail Blazers Commentary
Travis Demers has built a diverse broadcasting career outside his role with the Portland Trail Blazers, establishing himself as a versatile voice in both high school and college sports while expanding into other media ventures.
High School and College Sports
Demers has made significant contributions to Oregon’s high school sports scene. He regularly covers OSAA events, bringing the same energy to prep competitions that he delivers for NBA broadcasts. His commentary helps spotlight young athletes throughout the state.
His college sports coverage extends beyond Oregon’s borders. Demers has worked with College Sports Nation on SiriusXM, providing analysis and play-by-play for notable collegiate matchups.
His knowledge of the college game runs deep. He approaches these broadcasts with careful preparation, often highlighting the stories of student-athletes who might otherwise go unnoticed.
Many coaches and athletic directors across Oregon praise his approach to calling games at these levels. He treats high school and college contests with the same professionalism as his NBA work.
Other Broadcasting Ventures
Demers has expanded his broadcasting portfolio through several key partnerships. He served as an announcer for the Hillsboro Hops, bringing minor league baseball to Oregon listeners with his distinctive style.
His relationship with NBC Sports Northwest has been particularly fruitful. He co-hosts “The Rip City Drive with Travis and Chad,” a popular radio program that extends his reach beyond game commentary.
Demers maintains a strong digital presence through podcasting. His work reaches basketball fans through multiple platforms, solidifying his position as one of Oregon’s most recognizable sports voices.
His broadcasting versatility remains impressive. Whether calling NBA games or discussing college sports, Demers brings consistent energy and insight to each broadcast assignment.
The media personality continues to seek new broadcasting challenges while maintaining his core role with the Trail Blazers.
Personal Background
Travis Demers brings a unique blend of broadcasting education and Pacific Northwest roots to his role as the Trail Blazers radio voice. His personal journey reflects the persistence that eventually led to his dream job with Portland’s NBA team.
Early Life and Influences
Travis Demers received his foundation in broadcasting through his education at Long Island University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Broadcasting. While his early career path isn’t extensively documented, his journey in sports broadcasting shows the influence of legendary Blazers announcers.
Demers has spoken about the impact of Portland broadcasting icons like Bill Schonely and Ed Doucette on his approach to calling games. These influences helped shape his distinctive broadcasting style.
His path to becoming the Blazers’ radio voice wasn’t immediate or straightforward. Colleagues describe Demers as someone who demonstrated remarkable persistence in pursuing his career goals, often taking on various broadcasting roles to build experience.
Life In Oregon
Demers now calls Oregon home, residing in Sherwood with his wife Hannah and sons Lincoln and Lawson. His connection to the community extends beyond broadcasting.
Beyond the microphone, Demers has developed an interesting niche within the Blazers organization. He’s not just the voice of the team but also contributes to their visual identity, as he helps design the team’s uniforms. This unique involvement shows his passion for the team extends beyond play-by-play duties.
Demers’ story with the Blazers exemplifies perseverance in sports broadcasting. As Maury Brown noted in Forbes, his journey demonstrates the value of persistence in a competitive industry.
His integration into Oregon life and the Portland sports scene has been complete, making him a recognized voice in the community.
Travis Demers in the Community
Beyond the broadcast booth, Travis Demers has established himself as an active community member in the Portland area. His visibility as the Trail Blazers’ radio voice provides him a platform to make meaningful contributions throughout the region.
Demers has deep ties to Portland, where he serves not just as a broadcaster but as a community connector. The radio personality regularly participates in Trail Blazers community initiatives, leveraging his position to amplify charitable causes.
As a resident of Sherwood, Demers balances his professional responsibilities with local involvement. His commitment to the area extends beyond game days. He makes appearances at community events throughout the Portland metropolitan region.
Family plays a central role in Demers’ community identity. As father to Lincoln and Lawson, he represents the organization at family-focused events, bringing the Trail Blazers’ presence to younger fans.
Before securing the Trail Blazers position, Demers built community connections through his work with various local sports organizations. His experience calling games for the University of Portland, Hillsboro Hops, and OSAA developed his regional knowledge and relationships.
Fans have noted Demers’ accessibility, with some community members appreciating his willingness to engage directly. His interaction with supporters, including participating in Reddit discussions, demonstrates his commitment to connecting with the Blazers faithful beyond broadcast duties.
Reflections on the Role of a Broadcaster
Travis Demers’ journey as the voice of the Portland Trail Blazers illustrates the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting and the unique pressures faced by those behind the microphone.
Advancements in Sports Broadcasting
The technological revolution has transformed how NBA broadcasters like Demers connect with audiences. Radio play-by-play announcers now compete with multi-platform content delivery systems while maintaining the intimacy that radio provides.
Demers embraced this evolution after securing his position in 2019, following years of persistence in the industry. His approach combines traditional radio storytelling with modern engagement tactics.
Industry veterans often note that broadcasters increasingly interact with fans through social media before, during, and after games.
Many play-by-play announcers now participate in team content creation beyond game days. Demers himself has taken this a step further, providing input on Trail Blazers uniform designs – a unique crossover rarely seen in the industry.
Challenges and Rewards of Commentary
Live NBA commentary demands split-second decision-making while maintaining professionalism and accuracy. Broadcasters must navigate:
- Technical difficulties during broadcasts
- Travel demands (41+ road games annually)
- Instant fan feedback via social media
- Team performance fluctuations
For Demers, the position represents the culmination of a dream job pursuit that required extraordinary persistence. After filling in temporarily, he demonstrated the talent and dedication needed for the permanent role.
The reward comes in connecting fans to the game they love. Demers has earned appreciation from the Blazers community for his approach, balancing professional commentary with authentic enthusiasm for the team’s performance.
His post-game interactions further strengthen his relationship with the fanbase. He participates actively in the community’s conversation about each game.
