Marv Albert Says Voice Issues Led Him to Decline 1 NBC Game as Knicks Reach 1st Finals in 27 Years
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 2
Marv Albert Says Voice Issues Led Him to Decline 1 NBC Game as Knicks Reach 1st Finals in 27 Years
3 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 2
Marv Albert said he turned down NBC’s offer to call one game this season because of voice issues, even as the Knicks’ return to the NBA Finals revived interest in the Hall of Fame broadcaster.
NBC had approached Albert after using him and Bob Costas in season-opening segments; the game discussed was San Antonio-Philadelphia, not a Knicks broadcast.
Albert said New York’s playoff transformation has been "so unusual," crediting coach Mike Brown’s use of Karl-Anthony Towns as a facilitator while warning Mitchell Robinson’s broken finger could hurt the Knicks against Victor Wembanyama.
The former Knicks voice, who called New York’s 1973 title and 1994 Finals loss, said the current fan reaction is "off the charts" and would be even bigger if the franchise ends its 53-year championship drought.
Albert also praised current broadcaster Mike Breen as "terrific" and stressed that national TV announcers covering a Knicks Finals must remain objective.
With their defensive anchor injured, can New York's new strategy outwit phenom Victor Wembanyama for a historic NBA title?
After leading LeBron James and the Warriors, is coach Mike Brown the final piece to break the Knicks' 53-year championship curse?
Does the media's celebration of Victor Wembanyama reveal a bias against other international NBA superstars like Nikola Jokic?
New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA Finals Return and Marv Albert’s Absence: A Turning Point for Fans and Broadcasters
Overview
The New York Knicks' remarkable journey to the 2026 NBA Finals has reignited excitement across the city, thanks to a team built through smart strategy and resilience. Their playoff run, marked by overcoming tough Eastern Conference rivals and a focused, defensive approach, has not only brought sporting success but also inspired community initiatives, giving young and underserved fans a chance to share in the moment. Meanwhile, legendary announcer Marv Albert, whose iconic voice defined past Knicks triumphs, is absent from the broadcast due to health issues, leaving current voices like Mike Breen to carry forward his enduring legacy and connect new generations to the team's storied history.