Bill Raftery: The Legendary Voice Of College Basketball

Vergie Bashirian V 15 May 2025

There’s something about the name Bill Raftery that brings back memories of electrifying college basketball games, iconic calls, and the pure adrenaline rush of March Madness. If you’ve ever watched a college basketball game on TV, chances are you’ve heard his voice screaming “Raise up!” when a player hits a clutch shot. Bill Raftery isn’t just a commentator; he’s a living legend in the world of sports broadcasting.

From his humble beginnings as a college basketball coach to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in sports media, Raftery’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His passion for the game, combined with his unique style of commentary, has made him a household name among sports fans across the United States. But what exactly makes Bill Raftery so special?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the life and career of Bill Raftery, exploring his background, his impact on college basketball broadcasting, and why he’s beloved by millions of fans. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just someone who appreciates great storytelling, this article will give you a fresh perspective on the man behind the mic.

Biography: Who is Bill Raftery?
Early Life and Education
Coaching Career: The Foundation of His Expertise
Broadcasting Journey: From Coach to Commentator
Impact on Sports Media: Why Raftery Stands Out
Famous Calls: The Magic of “Raise Up!”
Personal Life: Beyond the Spotlight
Awards and Achievements
Legacy: Bill Raftery’s Enduring Influence
Conclusion: The Voice That Defined a Generation

Biography: Who is Bill Raftery?

Let’s start with the basics. Bill Raftery isn’t just some random guy who decided to become a sports commentator. He’s a guy who lived and breathed basketball from a very young age. Born on February 25, 1949, in Trenton, New Jersey, Raftery’s love for the game was evident even in his early years. Before he became the voice of college basketball, he was a successful coach with a knack for developing young talent.

But here’s the thing about Bill Raftery—he’s not just known for his commentary. He’s also known for his distinctive style, his energy, and his ability to connect with fans in a way that few commentators can. Whether he’s talking about a player’s shooting form or breaking down a game-winning play, Raftery brings a level of enthusiasm that’s hard to ignore.

Key Facts About Bill Raftery

Before we dive deeper into his career, let’s take a quick look at some key facts about Bill Raftery:

Birth Date: February 25, 1949
Birthplace: Trenton, New Jersey
Occupation: Sports Broadcaster, Former Basketball Coach
Notable Achievements: Voice of March Madness, Inducted into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dig a little deeper into his life and career.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in Trenton, New Jersey, Bill Raftery was surrounded by a community that loved sports. His father, John Raftery, was a high school basketball coach, and young Bill spent countless hours watching his dad work with players. It was during these formative years that Raftery developed a deep appreciation for the game.

Raftery attended Trenton Catholic High School, where he played basketball and excelled academically. After graduation, he went on to attend Seton Hall University, where he earned a degree in education. During his time at Seton Hall, Raftery played on the basketball team and quickly became known for his leadership and passion for the game.

After college, Raftery’s love for basketball led him to pursue a career in coaching. But little did he know that this decision would eventually pave the way for his transition into sports broadcasting.

Coaching Career: The Foundation of His Expertise

Bill Raftery’s coaching career was nothing short of impressive. He spent nearly two decades as a college basketball coach, working with teams like Seton Hall, Saint Peter’s, and Rider University. During his time as a coach, Raftery developed a reputation for being a mentor to young players, helping them grow both on and off the court.

One of the highlights of his coaching career came in 1993, when he led Seton Hall to the NCAA Final Four. This achievement solidified his status as one of the top coaches in college basketball and earned him widespread recognition in the sports world.

But here’s the thing about coaching—it’s not just about wins and losses. It’s about building relationships, understanding the game at its core, and being able to communicate effectively. These skills would later serve Raftery well in his broadcasting career, where he would need to break down complex plays and strategies in a way that even casual fans could understand.

Broadcasting Journey: From Coach to Commentator

The transition from coach to commentator wasn’t an easy one, but Bill Raftery made it look seamless. In 1998, he joined CBS Sports as a college basketball analyst, and the rest, as they say, is history. Raftery’s first big moment in broadcasting came during the 1999 NCAA Tournament, where he called the game between Gonzaga and Stanford. His energetic commentary and insightful analysis quickly made him a fan favorite.

But it wasn’t just his knowledge of the game that set Raftery apart. It was his personality. He brought a level of excitement and passion to the broadcast booth that resonated with fans. His signature call, “Raise up!,” became a rallying cry for basketball fans everywhere, and it’s a phrase that’s still used to this day.

Over the years, Raftery has worked with some of the biggest names in sports broadcasting, including Jim Nantz and Greg Gumbel. He’s covered countless games, from regular-season matchups to championship finals, and his work has earned him widespread acclaim in the industry.

What Makes Raftery’s Commentary Unique?

There are a few things that make Bill Raftery’s commentary stand out:

His energy and enthusiasm are unmatched.
He has a deep understanding of the game, thanks to his years as a coach.
His signature calls, like “Raise up!,” have become part of the fabric of college basketball.
He connects with fans in a way that feels personal and authentic.

It’s this combination of expertise, passion, and personality that has made Raftery one of the most beloved commentators in sports media.

Impact on Sports Media: Why Raftery Stands Out

In an industry filled with talented commentators, Bill Raftery stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, he brings a level of authenticity to his work that’s hard to replicate. Whether he’s talking about a player’s shooting form or breaking down a game-winning play, Raftery’s passion for the game shines through in everything he does.

Another reason Raftery stands out is his ability to adapt to changing times. When social media became a dominant force in sports media, Raftery embraced it wholeheartedly. He’s active on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where he interacts with fans and shares his thoughts on the game. This has helped him maintain a strong connection with younger audiences who consume sports content in new and different ways.

Finally, Raftery’s impact extends beyond the broadcast booth. He’s been a mentor to countless young commentators and analysts, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of sports media professionals.

Famous Calls: The Magic of “Raise Up!”

No discussion of Bill Raftery would be complete without mentioning his famous calls. Whether it’s “Raise up!” or “Oh, what a play!,” Raftery’s signature phrases have become synonymous with college basketball. But what makes these calls so special?

For starters, they’re catchy. They’re easy to remember and repeat, which is why they’ve become part of the lexicon of college basketball fans. But beyond that, they capture the excitement and emotion of the game in a way that few other commentators can. When Raftery says “Raise up!” after a player hits a clutch shot, you can feel the energy in the room. It’s a moment that stays with you long after the game is over.

Of course, Raftery’s famous calls aren’t just about the words themselves. It’s about the delivery. His voice rises with excitement, his tone conveys pure joy, and his enthusiasm is infectious. It’s this combination of words and delivery that makes his calls so memorable.

Personal Life: Beyond the Spotlight

While Bill Raftery is best known for his work in sports broadcasting, there’s more to him than just his professional life. He’s a family man who values his relationships with his loved ones. Raftery is married to his wife, Maureen, and they have three children together.

Outside of work, Raftery enjoys spending time with his family and staying involved in his community. He’s also a big advocate for youth sports, believing that participation in athletics can have a positive impact on young people’s lives. Through his work and his personal life, Raftery demonstrates the importance of giving back and making a difference in the world.

Awards and Achievements

Bill Raftery’s contributions to sports media have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he’s received numerous awards and honors for his work. In 2012, he was inducted into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the industry. He’s also been recognized by organizations like the United States Basketball Writers Association and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

But beyond the awards, Raftery’s true achievement lies in the way he’s connected with fans. Whether it’s through his commentary, his social media presence, or his work in the community, he’s made a lasting impact on the world of sports.

Legacy: Bill Raftery’s Enduring Influence

As Bill Raftery continues to work in sports broadcasting, his legacy is already taking shape. He’s not just a commentator; he’s a cultural icon whose influence extends far beyond the broadcast booth. His passion for the game, his ability to connect with fans, and his commitment to excellence have made him one of the most beloved figures in sports media.

Looking ahead, Raftery’s impact on the industry will likely continue to grow. As new generations of fans discover his work, they’ll come to appreciate the unique blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and authenticity that defines his commentary. Whether he’s calling a game or mentoring young broadcasters, Raftery’s influence is sure to be felt for years to come.

Conclusion: The Voice That Defined a Generation

In conclusion, Bill Raftery is more than just a sports commentator. He’s a legend, a mentor, and a cultural icon whose impact on the world of sports cannot be overstated. From his early days as a coach to his current role as one of the most recognizable voices in sports media, Raftery has left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.

So, the next time you hear him say “Raise up!” during a game, take a moment to appreciate the man behind the mic. He’s not just calling the game; he’s creating memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll find yourself shouting “Raise up!” during your own favorite basketball moments.

Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to leave a comment or share this article with your friends. Let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the incredible legacy of Bill Raftery!

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Bill Raftery: The Legendary Voice Of College Basketball

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