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CBS Bounces Packer From NCAA Team

After 34 years of Final Fours, controversial broadcaster is out

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 14, 2008 11:57 AM CDT

(Newser) – For the first time in 34 years, Billy Packer won’t be calling the Final Four, the Miami Herald reports. CBS won’t renew the 68-year-old’s year-to-year contract, an exec confirmed, but will replace Packer with veteran announcer Clark Kellogg. Packer has been a controversy magnet, most famously for calling Allen Iverson “a tough monkey” in 1996.

“'No one has ever loved the game of college basketball more than Billy Packer,” said longtime broadcasting partner Jim Nantz, who will stay on alongside Kellog. “He protects the heart and soul of the sport. Fans don't realize they owe Billy a thank you.”

CBS basketball analyst Billy Packer looks up at Greg Oden #20 of the Ohio State Buckeyes, March 10, 2007.
CBS basketball analyst Billy Packer looks up at Greg Oden #20 of the Ohio State Buckeyes, March 10, 2007.   (Getty Images)
CBS analyst Billy Packer looks on as the the Oklahoma State Cowboys mascot attempts to get some television time before the start of a fourth round regional game of the NCAA Tournament, March 27, 2004.
CBS analyst Billy Packer looks on as the the Oklahoma State Cowboys mascot attempts to get some television time before the start of a fourth round regional game of the NCAA Tournament, March 27, 2004.   (Getty Images)
Billy Packer of CBS Sports stands on the court during the semifinal round of the NCAA Men's Final Four between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Oklahoma Sooners on March 30, 2002.
Billy Packer of CBS Sports stands on the court during the semifinal round of the NCAA Men's Final Four between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Oklahoma Sooners on March 30, 2002.   (Getty Images)
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