On Sunday, the basketball world bid farewell to one of its most beloved figures, Hubie Brown. At the age of 91, Brown called his final NBA game, a fitting end to a remarkable career that spanned over five decades. The Milwaukee Bucks hosted the Philadelphia 76ers, and the game ended with a 135-127 victory for the Bucks. But the real story was the celebration of Brown’s incredible contributions to the sport.
Hubie Brown’s journey in basketball began long before he became a household name as a broadcaster and coach. Born on September 25, 1933, in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, Brown played college basketball at Niagara University, where he was a teammate of future NBA coach Frank Layden. After college, he briefly played for the Rochester Colonels in the Eastern Professional Basketball League, averaging 13.8 points per game. Though his playing career was short-lived, it set the stage for his future success in coaching and broadcasting.
Brown’s coaching career began in 1955 at St. Mary Academy, and he quickly made a name for himself with his defensive expertise and teaching ability. He went on to coach at the college and professional levels, winning an ABA championship with the Kentucky Colonels in 1975 and earning the NBA Coach of the Year award twice. His broadcasting career was equally impressive, covering 18 NBA Finals and earning him a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005.
In his last game, Brown was honored with the game ball, presented to him by referee James Williams
“I used to lead the league in technicals every year, and you’re actually giving me a present?”
💫 A LIFETIME IN THE NBA 💫
What a beautiful final sendoff for the LEGENDARY Hubie Brown! 👏 pic.twitter.com/Qc6uFZoV0J
— NBA (@NBA) February 9, 2025
Players from both teams visited the broadcast table to pay their respects. Brown’s final words on the broadcast were heartfelt:
“Thanks for your patience, fans. Today was a wonderful day for my family, because they’re all here today. I love you all. And thank you for the opportunity from management.”
Brown was known not just for his knowledge of the game but for his ability to teach and inspire. His passion for teaching extended beyond the court, reaching fans, players, and coaches alike. He was a mentor to many, including current NBA stars who grew up listening to his broadcasts.
Hubie Brown’s legacy is one of dedication, passion, and love for the game of basketball. His final game was a celebration of a life spent in service to the sport he loved. As he signed off for the last time, the basketball world stood united in gratitude for the man who had taught them so much about the game.
HUBIE BROWN’S FINAL CALL 🥺🥺🥺
AN IMPACT ON THE GAME OF BASKETBALL THAT WILL LIVE ON FOREVER! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/pQikIAjCZW
— NBA (@NBA) February 9, 2025
Hubie Brown’s contributions to basketball are immeasurable, and his love for the game will be remembered by all who had the privilege of listening to his voice or learning from his wisdom. As he said,
“It was a fantastic ride,”
and indeed, it was a ride that touched the hearts of many.
