Breaking News: Sonny Smith Announces Retirement from Auburn Men’s Basketball Radio Analyst Role
AUBURN, AL – Sonny Smith, a beloved figure in Auburn University’s basketball history, has announced his retirement from his role as the radio analyst for Auburn men’s basketball. Smith, whose distinctive voice and insightful analysis have been a staple for Auburn fans for nearly three decades, will step down after the 2023-2024 season.
Smith, who served as the color commentator for Auburn basketball radio broadcasts for 29 years, has long been a fan favorite due to his deep knowledge of the game, colorful commentary, and unwavering passion for Auburn athletics. His departure marks the end of an era for Auburn basketball radio, and his retirement is sure to leave a significant void in the program’s radio coverage.
**A Storied Career**
Sonny Smith’s career in basketball began long before he took to the microphone. A former player and coach, Smith’s association with Auburn basketball dates back to the 1970s. He played for the Tigers from 1965 to 1967 and later served as Auburn’s head coach from 1976 to 1982. During his coaching tenure, Smith built a solid foundation for Auburn basketball, guiding the team to multiple postseason appearances.
After his coaching career, Smith transitioned to broadcasting, where he found a new way to engage with Auburn basketball fans. His candid and humorous style, mixed with keen basketball insight, made him a standout on Auburn’s radio broadcasts. Whether calling exciting plays or offering detailed breakdowns of the game, Smith became a trusted voice for fans tuning in across the region.
Smith’s partnership with the legendary voice of Auburn basketball, Rod Bramblett, became one of the most iconic duos in college sports broadcasting. Together, the two formed a chemistry that was beloved by fans and made for an unforgettable listening experience. Following Bramblett’s tragic passing in 2019, Smith continued to honor his legacy while maintaining his commitment to bringing the excitement of Auburn basketball to listeners.
**A Legacy of Dedication**
Throughout his nearly three-decade-long tenure, Smith’s dedication to Auburn basketball and its fans was evident in everything he did. Whether on the radio, at games, or in the community, Smith was known for his genuine love for the program and its people. His retirement comes at a time when Auburn basketball is experiencing a resurgence under head coach Bruce Pearl, with the team regularly competing at the highest levels of college basketball.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have been part of Auburn basketball for so many years,” said Smith in a statement announcing his retirement. “It’s been an honor to be a part of this program and share the love of the game with Auburn fans. I’ll always be a Tiger, and I look forward to continuing to support the team in whatever way I can.”
Smith’s departure will undoubtedly be felt by the Auburn family, as he has been more than just a broadcaster—he has been a mentor, a friend, and a true ambassador for Auburn basketball. As the Tigers move forward into a new era of success, the legacy of Sonny Smith will remain woven into the fabric of the program’s history.
**Looking Ahead**
The Auburn Sports Network has announced that a search will begin to find Smith’s successor as the color analyst for Auburn men’s basketball broadcasts. While the transition will be a tough one, Smith’s retirement provides an opportunity for a new voice to emerge, continuing to provide fans with the high-quality commentary and analysis that has become synonymous with Auburn basketball.
Smith will retire at the end of the 2023-2024 season, but his influence on Auburn basketball will continue to resonate for years to come.
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