Craig Sager works his first NBA Finals game Thursday night
Craig Sager, one of the most beloved figures tied to the NBA, finally got to work the sideline of an NBA Finals game on Thursday night in Cleveland.
Sager was part of the on-air crew for Game 6 between the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers in what appears to be a one-time deal between TNT parent Turner Broadcasting and ESPN, which handles the broadcast for fellow Disney-owned network ABC.
“I'd like to thank Turner and ESPN for approaching me with this tremendous opportunity to be part of The Finals broadcast team,” Sager said Wednesday in a statement. “I've been watching the series very closely and, while I do not want to distract in any way from the event itself, I look forward to being in the building for what will be an incredibly exciting Game 6. The NBA community is a very special one and this is a great honor.”
Sager was handling the sideline duties along with ESPN’s Doris Burke.
When Sager landed an interview with LeBron James, who led Cleveland to a 115-101 win in Game 6, the Cavaliers superstar heaped praise upon the broadcaster after discussing the victory.
“First of all, let me ask you a question,” James said. “How in the hell do you go 30-plus years without getting a finals game? That don't make no sense.
“But I'm happy to see you, man. Much love and respect. I'm happy I was able to witness it in front of these fans. We really appreciate you.”
Sager got in a few words of his own.
“Thanks for entertaining me,” Sager told James.
The news earlier this week that Sager would get his first NBA Finals assignment was met with much enthusiasm on social media.
“Welcome to our team,” Burke said to Sagerin in a video message released by ESPN on Wednesday. “It's our honor.”
Others from the ESPN family also welcomed Sager with open arms.
John Wildhack, ESPN's executive vice president for production and programming, called Sager “an iconic member of the NBA family.”
“We hope that this will be a special night for Craig and for NBA fans,” Wildhack said.
Sager has worked for Turner for 34 years. He’s known for his outlandish wardrobe and has formed a unique bond with many of the NBA’s top figures, most notably San Antonio Coach Gregg Popovich.
Diagnosed with leukemia in 2014, Sager has worked as much as possible while being treated. He will receive the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the ESPYs next month.
Get our high school sports newsletter
Prep Rally is devoted to the SoCal high school sports experience, bringing you scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
