Lisa Byington, a reporter and sports commentator, has been named as the first woman to ever be hired as a full-time TV play-by-play announcer for one of the major U.S. men’s professional sports teams. On Wednesday, the Milwaukee Bucks announced that they hired Byington for the role, which was previously held by Jim Paschke.
Paschke, a 35-year play-by-play veteran for the Bucks, had retired after the last NBA season, leaving an opening in the broadcasting roster. However, the position did not stay vacant for long. Byington has broadcasted games for the 2019 Women’s World Cup, the 2020 Olympic games, as well as for networks such as ESPN, CBS, Fox Sports and FS1.
As Byington takes on this new role, she revealed that she was “absolutely thrilled” at the chance to commentate for the Bucks who are a “first-class franchise and championship organization.”
Byington has had nothing but kind words for Paschke. In a statement, Byington highlighted “his passion for the team and the memorable moments his voice will always be part of.” Byington continued, “I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge his work and commitment to the franchise, it’s my honor to be the one to take the baton from him.”
