In a fitting tribute to a career spanning decades of iconic calls and unwavering dedication, Sean McDonough has been named the 2025 National Sports Media Association (NSMA) Sportscaster of the Year.
The announcement, which came just before one of the most thrilling games of the college football postseason, underscores McDonough’s enduring impact on sports broadcasting.
At 63 years old, McDonough shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to deliver high-energy commentary across multiple sports for ESPN, where he has become a staple voice for fans nationwide.
McDonough’s year in review
McDonough’s current role at ESPN is multifaceted and demanding, reflecting his versatility and expertise. He serves as the network’s No. 2 college football broadcaster, teaming up with analyst Greg McElroy and sideline reporter Molly McGrath to cover some of the biggest games in the sport.
This trio has built a strong chemistry, bringing insightful analysis and excitement to Saturday afternoons and primetime matchups.
Beyond college football, McDonough is ESPN’s lead NHL broadcaster, a position that has seen him at the forefront of hockey coverage.
In 2025, he called the NHL Western Conference Finals alongside color commentator Ray Ferraro and reporter Emily Kaplan, capturing the intensity of playoff hockey with his signature precision and passion.
His NHL duties extended to the innovative 4 Nations Faceoff tournament, where he provided play-by-play for international stars clashing on the ice.
Not content with dominating football and hockey, McDonough also dipped into baseball in 2025, handling an MLB Wild Card Series with analyst Todd Frazier and reporter Taylor McGregor.
This cross-sport proficiency is a hallmark of McDonough’s career, allowing him to adapt seamlessly to different paces and narratives, whether it’s the grind of a nine-inning game or the fast-paced action of a hockey overtime.
The moment McDonough learned of his NSMA honor was nothing short of dramatic, unfolding just prior to calling the 2026 Sugar Bowl on ESPN—a game that would go down as one of the most memorable in recent college football history.
Veteran ESPN PxP Sean McDonough got quite the surprise to start his 2026, as our crew shared that he’s been named the 2025 @NSMAsportsmedia National Sportscaster of the Year 🎉
Sean, @GregMcElroy, @mollyamcgrath & @laurarutledge will call @SugarBowlNola Thurs at 8p ET on ESPN pic.twitter.com/ARgs3zH2CW
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) January 1, 2026
It was his broadcast partner, Greg McElroy, who had the privilege of delivering the news. “We’re super fired up about this. This is just an amazing, amazing thing,” McElroy enthused. “I couldn’t be more excited to be the one who gets to deliver the news. And I don’t think it could be more well-deserved. He is our leader. He is our patriarch… He is Sean McDonough, and he is officially the 2025 NSMA Sportscaster of the Year.”
Caught off guard in the best possible way, McDonough—known for his quick wit and eloquent delivery—quipped that he was speechless for the first time in his life.
True to form, he promised to keep his response “uncharacteristically brief.” Drawing a humorous parallel to his long wait for this recognition, McDonough joked, “I’ve joked I’ve been the Susan Lucci of that award,” referencing the legendary soap opera actress who endured 18 consecutive Daytime Emmy nominations before finally winning in 1999.
The analogy resonated with fans and colleagues alike, highlighting the perseverance that has defined McDonough’s journey in an industry where accolades often come late or not at all.
The NSMA Sportscaster of the Year award, presented annually by the National Sports Media Association, recognizes excellence in sports broadcasting across radio, television, and digital platforms.
Past winners include broadcasting giants like Bob Costas, Al Michaels, and Mike Tirico, placing McDonough in elite company. This honor is particularly meaningful for McDonough, who has been a fixture in sports media since the 1980s.
McDonough’s career
His early breakthroughs included serving as the voice of the World Series on CBS, where he called pivotal moments in baseball’s grandest stage.
Later, he took on Monday Night Football for ESPN, delivering primetime NFL action to millions of viewers and cementing his reputation as a reliable, engaging play-by-play announcer.
McDonough’s path to this pinnacle hasn’t been without challenges.
Born in Boston in 1962, he grew up immersed in sports, influenced by his father, the late sportswriter Will McDonough. Sean graduated from Syracuse University, a breeding ground for broadcasting talent, and quickly rose through the ranks.
His style—marked by a deep knowledge of the game, impeccable timing, and a touch of dry humor—has endeared him to audiences.
Over the years, he’s navigated the evolving landscape of sports media, from traditional network broadcasts to the streaming era, all while maintaining a professional demeanor that’s both authoritative and approachable.
At 63, McDonough remains as vibrant as ever.
Colleagues praise his leadership in the booth, where he mentors younger talents like McElroy and ensures every broadcast runs smoothly. His ability to handle high-pressure situations, such as the overtime thriller in the 2026 Sugar Bowl, demonstrates why he’s still at the top of his game.
Looking ahead, McDonough has expressed no desire to retire, hinting at more seasons of college football, NHL playoffs, and perhaps even more MLB assignments.
In an era where sports broadcasting is increasingly data-driven and fast-paced, McDonough’s storytelling prowess stands out as a reminder of the human element that makes sports so compelling.
This NSMA award isn’t just a trophy; it’s a validation of a lifetime’s work.
For fans who have followed McDonough’s calls—from the crack of the bat in the World Series to the roar of the crowd in college stadiums—it’s a well-deserved celebration.
As McElroy aptly put it, McDonough is the “patriarch” of the ESPN booth, and now, he’s officially recognized as one of the best in the business.
Here’s to many more years of his unmistakable voice gracing our screens.
