ESPN SHOCKER: WVU’s Tony Caridi Crowned Best Play-by-Play Announcer in College Sports, Cements Legacy as Voice of a Generation
By [Your Name], ESPN Contributor – August 13, 2025
In a moment that sent shockwaves through college sports media, ESPN has officially named Tony Caridi the Best Play-by-Play Announcer in College Sports, elevating the longtime West Virginia University icon to the summit of broadcasting greatness. For decades, Caridi has been the golden voice behind the Mountaineers, but today, he steps fully into the national spotlight — a titan among titans in the realm of sports commentary.
This historic recognition marks the first time a broadcaster from the Big 12 Conference has earned the top spot, and it was anything but close. In a sweeping victory that saw Caridi capture over 70% of fan votes and earn unanimous praise from a panel of elite media professionals, ESPN cited his “electric delivery, cinematic storytelling, and emotional authenticity” as the defining traits that set him apart from every other voice in the game.
> “Tony doesn’t just call the game — he paints it,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “You don’t just hear a touchdown pass or a buzzer-beater — you feel it in your soul. That’s the Caridi effect.”
A Voice That Echoes Through Time
For 30+ years, Caridi has been the pulse of Mountaineer Nation, narrating some of WVU’s most iconic athletic moments. From legendary football clashes under the lights in Morgantown to March Madness heroics on the hardwood, Caridi’s voice has become synonymous with passion, pride, and presence.
Whether it’s a booming “TOUCHDOWN MOUNTAINEERS!” or a breathless call of a last-second game-winner, Caridi has the rare ability to elevate the moment without overwhelming it — a skill that separates the greats from the merely good.
More Than Just a Microphone
Caridi’s impact extends well beyond the press box. He has mentored dozens of young broadcasters, supported local journalism initiatives, and remained a pillar of the Morgantown community. His dedication to integrity in reporting, accuracy in storytelling, and emotional connection with fans has made him not just a great announcer, but a trusted voice in an era of noise.
And now, with this ESPN honor, his contributions have been formally enshrined on the national stage.
Caridi Responds with Humility — and a Message for Mountaineer Nation
In classic Caridi fashion, the man of the hour remained humble during his acceptance interview with ESPN:
> “This honor isn’t just about me. It’s about West Virginia. It’s about the fans, the athletes, the coaches — all the people who make Mountaineer sports so special,” Caridi said. “I’m just the guy lucky enough to tell their stories.”
He also teased an upcoming memoir and podcast series, “Voice of the Mountaineers,” set to launch this winter — chronicling his career, his most memorable calls, and his unfiltered reflections on the evolution of college sports broadcasting.
A Legacy Cemented — and Still Growing
Tony Caridi’s name now belongs in the same conversation as broadcasting legends like Keith Jackson, Brent Musburger, and Verne Lundquist — not just for his longevity, but for his rare ability to make every listener feel like they’re part of something bigger than the game.
As ESPN’s unprecedented recognition ripples across the sports world, one thing is clear: Tony Caridi didn’t just win an award — he secured his legacy.
And for Mountaineer Nation, there’s never been a prouder moment to turn on the radio and hear that familiar voice echo:
“Let’s bring on the Mountaineers.”
