Mike Tirico '88

Mike Tirico is a prominent American sportscaster known for his versatility and extensive coverage of major sporting events. He began his career at CBS affiliate WTVH in Syracuse before joining ESPN in 1991.

At ESPN, Tirico became the lead play-by-play announcer for Monday Night Football from 2006 to 2015 and called over 300 NBA games, including six NBA Finals. He also covered major golf tournaments, tennis Grand Slams, and World Cup soccer. In 2016, he joined NBC Sports, where he serves as the lead play-by-play announcer for Sunday Night Football and hosts the network's Olympic coverage. He is also set to be NBC's lead NBA play-by-play announcer as the network resumes broadcasting NBA games.

Tirico has been recognized with multiple Emmy Awards and was named the 2010 Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

A graduate of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School, Tirico got his start at WAER, where he developed his skills in play-by-play sports broadcasting, providing coverage for Syracuse University athletics.

In honor of his commitment to supporting the next generation of broadcasters, he established the Mike Tirico Scholarship at WAER, helping aspiring students pursue careers in media and journalism.