The Portland Trail Blazers dismissed newly hired play-by-play announcer Braiden Bell just hours after announcing his hiring, the team revealed. Bell was set to take over for longtime broadcaster Kevin Calabro, but the organization uncovered racist and sexist content on Bell’s social media profiles, dating back to when he was a teenager in 2012 and 2013. Bell, now 29, faced immediate termination due to those posts, which the Blazers said clearly violated their team and league standards. The team stated:
“The Portland Trail Blazers maintain a zero-tolerance stance on racist, sexist, or any harmful remarks. The social media content from our recently appointed play-by-play announcer directly conflicts with our team and league rules, as well as our core values and expectations. As a result, we will not be proceeding with his employment.
The play-by-play role upholds a tradition of excellence in both broadcasting and character, a standard we do not waver from. We regret that this process fell short of our expectations and apologize to Blazers supporters and the Rip City community. We firmly believe that all members of Rip City should feel safe and welcomed, and will ensure our future broadcaster embodies these principles. We are committed to doing better.”
The problematic tweets were originally discovered by KGW, which noted that Bell’s posts since reaching adulthood in 2015 have been primarily sports-related. As of Friday evening, Bell’s account was set to private. Before being hired by the Blazers, Bell was the play-by-play voice for the Phoenix Mercury and the G League’s Valley Vipers. This season, the Blazers have been renovating their broadcast team under new owner Tom Dundon, who did not retain several veteran broadcasters including Calabro.
With under three weeks remaining before the 2026-27 NBA season tips off, Portland now faces the challenge of finding a new play-by-play announcer. The Blazers will open the season at home against the Phoenix Suns on October 21.
Fan Take:
This situation underscores how important a broadcaster’s character is alongside their on-air talent, especially in a sport striving for inclusivity and respect. For basketball fans, it’s a reminder that organizations are increasingly holding public figures accountable, which could foster a more welcoming environment both on and off the court.
Source: www.cbssports.com
