The Milwaukee Bucks made some history Wednesday afternoon when they announced the hiring of Lisa Byington.
Byington will become the first full-time TV play-by-play female announcer for a men’s major professional sports team when she joins the Bucks for the upcoming 2021-22 season. Bucks and Fiserv Forum President Peter Feigin gave a statement and expressed his enthusiasm with the decision to bring Byington in, stating:
"“We are so excited to welcome Lisa to the Bucks family and to bring such a talented play-by-play announcer to our broadcast team.. Lisa’s extensive television broadcasting background, including her play-by-play work for high-level NCAA basketball on several national networks, makes her the perfect choice to take on this major role. While we appreciate the significance of selecting Lisa, and we celebrate this historic moment, Lisa earned this position based on her extraordinary skills and experience. We look forward to Lisa becoming the voice of the Bucks.”"
Lisa Byington joins the Milwaukee Bucks at a thrilling time following their first title-winning campaign in 50 seasons
After 35 years on the job, long-time Bucks’ play-by-play announcer Jim Paschke announced that he would be stepping down following the 2020-21 season before the postseason. Ultimately, the Bucks would go out and win the title to allow Paschke to go off and ride into the sunset. With the team set to defend their title as NBA champions next season, Byington will certainly be joining a vibrant environment, and she seems excited about the opportunity.
"“I’m absolutely thrilled for this opportunity, and the ability to work with a first-class franchise and a championship organization like the Milwaukee Bucks,” said Byington. “My sincerest appreciation and thanks go out to so many, but, in particular, Bucks President Peter Feigin and Bally Sports Wisconsin Executive Producer Tony Tortorici for making this such a smooth process from start to finish. I know that I will be stepping into the role long-held by Jim Paschke, and I appreciate his passion for the team and the memorable moments his voice will always be a part of. I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge his work and commitment to the franchise, and it’s my honor to be the one who takes the baton from him. I’m particularly excited to work with such an amazing team of Marques Johnson, Zora Stephenson, Steve Novak and everyone involved with Bucks games at Bally Sports Wisconsin.”“Finally, I understand the groundbreaking nature of this hire, and I appreciate the fact that during this process that aspect was addressed, but never made a primary focus. In fact, I applaud the Bucks for taking the first steps toward making hires like this more of the norm in the NBA. Because it’s time.”"
Being the first female in the role, Byington should help set the standard moving forward for other teams in the process. Byington has worked for several household outlets in the past like ESPN, Fox Sports, CBS, and many more, and she seems destined for great things as she steps into a big role with the Bucks.
Best of luck, Lisa!