The Portland Path Blazers mourn the passing of former radio announcer Brian Wheeler, who handed away on Friday, November 8. Wheeler, higher often called “Wheels” served because the radio voice of the Path Blazers for 21 seasons from 1998-2019.
Wheels was raised within the Los Angeles space, spending his early years listening to sports activities broadcasting legends Vin Scully and Chick Hearn that might affect his future work. He attended Loyola College in Chicago, starting his broadcasting profession on campus earlier than making it to the professionals. His 35-year broadcasting profession included stops with the Sacramento Kings & Monarchs, Seattle Sonics, and Chicago Bulls, earlier than 21 seasons in Rip Metropolis.
Wheels was named Oregon Sportscaster of the Yr in 2007, recognizing his impression on the state’s sports activities tradition. His iconic trademark name of “BOOM-SHAKA-LAKA” continues to be broadly used throughout the trade and a fan favourite to this present day inside Moda Heart. His love for the sport and fervour for the Path Blazers got here via in each radio name, making every play a thrill for each listener tuning in. As we mourn Wheels passing, we fondly keep in mind his post-win declaration, “And as soon as once more we are able to say: It’s a terrific day to be a Blazer!”
