Iconic Bulls Commentator Dismissed Due to Transgression Regarding Entrance Music Selection on Michael Jordan's Homecoming in Chicago
Loud and Clear: Ray Clay's Iconic Chicago Bulls Announcements
Ray Clay, a Chicago legend in his own right, was beloved during the Bulls' dynasty in the 90s. Alongside Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman, Clay became an integral part of the franchise for nearly thirteen years.
Here's the man behind the iconic Bulls and Jordan introductions at the United Center. With the Alan Parsons Project's 'Sirius' ringing out, Clay's booming voice declared the starting line-up, sending fans into a frenzy. Phrases like "Aaaaand now... the starting line-up... for your... Chicago Bulls!" and "Froooom North Carolina... at guard... 6ft 6in... Michael Jordan" became the defining sounds of championship years.
Fast-forward to Jordan's return to the NBA in 2001, sporting a Washington Wizards jersey. The question on every fan's lips: would Clay announce Jordan in his signature style? The anticipation was valid, as Clay had forever etched that introduction into Bulls history.
Admitting he wasn't sure, Clay initially followed the organization's wishes and toned down the announcement. Reflecting on the event, Clay recalled:
"I was honest when I said nobody from the organization had talked to me and told me how they would like me to introduce him. I said my feeling would be that everybody in the building wants to hear Michael Jordan introduced as I've introduced him many times before with the full Michael Jordan introduction."
Teammates had reportedly requested Clay to maintain his traditional introduction style, but management stepped in and told him to introduce Jordan like any other player.
Jordan's return to Chicago was met with hero's welcomes, and Clay's modified announcement was shared on SportsCenter. The classic Ray Clay introduction, it seemed, was a victim of management's desire to play it safe.
Ray Clay's tumultuous tenure with the Bulls ended in May 2002. Although no official reason was given, Clay believed his disagreement over Jordan's introduction played a part in his dismissal. Fortunately for him, he found a second chance with the Philadelphia 76ers, who invited him to announce Jordan's final NBA game.
Clay's story solidified his status as a fan favorite, earning him a lasting place in Chicago's sports history. He was even invited to announce for the Chicago Sky's WNBA team in 2006 before retiring in 2019. In 2024, he came out of retirement to announce for the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.
MJ's net worth today is estimated at $2 billion, with a reported investment in the NASCAR Cup series and his popular Air Jordan brand. He became the first billionaire NBA player in history, and LeBron James joined him in this elite club. The basketball world will certainly never forget the bond between MJ and Ray Clay, whose voices continued to resonate throughout the Chicago sports landscape.
- Despite management's initial instruction to tone down his introduction, Ray Clay believed that fans would prefer his traditional Michael Jordan introduction.
- Kim Malville, president of the Philadelphia 76ers, recognized Clay's unique charm and invited him to announce Jordan's last NBA game.
- During his tenure with the Chicago Sky WNBA team, Ray Clay's voice continued to echo through the Chicago sports landscape.
- Delving into the world of sports beyond basketball, Michael Jordan's net worth today is estimated at $2 billion, making him the first billionaire NBA player in history, followed by LeBron James.
