Want to call NBA games? The Charlotte Hornets are hiring an announcer. Here’s how to apply
The Charlotte Hornets are searching for their next public address announcer to call basketball games for the 2024-25 season.
Pat Doughty, the former Hornets PA announcer for nearly 20 years known as “Big Pat” for his vibrant voice and fierce dedication to the team, passed away last month at the age of 55, The Charlotte Observer reported.
“The organization seeks a dedicated and passionate voice who will bring their own personality and enthusiasm for Charlotte basketball in a way that represents the Hornets, the city of Charlotte and its NBA fans, while understanding the importance and impact that Big Pat had on the position and Hornets fans,” the job posting says.
Do you have what it takes to become the next PA announcer for the Hornets? Here’s what to know and how to apply.
What does an NBA announcer do?
The Hornets PA announcer will:
Announce player introductions, starting lineups and any substitutions.
Call play-by-play action, including points scored, fouls and timeouts.
Provide updates on the game clock, shot clock and other relevant game statistics.
Lead crowd participation activities, such as cheering sections or chants.
Announce in-game promotions, contests and sponsor messages.
Introduce special guests, including celebrities, former players or community figures.
Announce pregame ceremonies, national anthems and special presentations.
Provide post-game information, including final scores, upcoming games and thanking fans for attending.
Deliver important safety and emergency messages, including lost children, security alerts or weather-related announcements.
What experience do you need to be an NBA announcer?
Applicants must have at least three years of public address experience in basketball and proficient knowledge and understanding of NBA rules and regulations, according to the job posting.
The job also requires the following:
Strong vocal ability, enunciation and comfort in addressing large crowds.
Ability to take in quick feedback and respond to cues effectively.
Demonstrate proficiency in calling plays, reacting to in-game moments and general reading of PA announcements.
Strong verbal and public speaking skills.
Ability to both follow a script and ad-lib.
Proficiency in multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment.
Must be able to attend all Charlotte Hornets home games, including preseason and postseason, which could fall on any day of the week, including holidays.
How to apply
You can apply for the job online at nba.com/hornets/pa-auditions.
Applicants must provide:
- A resume
- A professional reel of website showcasing your previous public announcer experience
- A taped audition of the script provided
The position is part-time with the option to renew after each contract year. There is no salary listed for the position.
The deadline to submit your application is Sept. 13.
For more information, you can call Hornets Basketball Operations at 704-688-8600.
This story was originally published August 22, 2024 at 2:50 PM with the headline "Want to call NBA games? The Charlotte Hornets are hiring an announcer. Here’s how to apply."
