Today is a sad day for longtime NBA fans, with the passing of Jim Durham. ‘JD’ was only 65 years old. My fondest memories of Durham are from his time as play-by-play man for the Chicago Bulls TV & radio networks in the 1980′s and early 1990′s.
Durham’s most famous call will be forever linked to Michael Jordan – 1989′s ‘The Shot’. My words simply won’t do it justice, so let’s hear it from JD himself. Here’s an excellent clip uploaded by ESPN – two iconic Jordan moments, as called by the unmistakeable voice of the one and only Jim Durham:
Other signature Jim Durham calls burnt into my memory include:
- “Michael into the front-court…”
- “…rimming – no” / “rimming – yes”
- “…book it”.
Just last year, Durham was presented with the Curt Gowdy Media Award – for his contribution to the sport – from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Accepting the award, he was as unassuming as ever, telling a great story or two about those he had the pleasure of working with throughout his career – including the great Johnny ‘Red’ Kerr.
Rest in peace, Jim Durham. Your voice and Michael Jordan’s career are forever entwined.
Do you have a favourite moment from JD’s amazing broadcasting career that comes to mind?
Adam Ryan
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