When Belmont men’s basketball broadcasts its first home game of the season Saturday, there will be a new voice calling the play-by-plays.
Belmont announced Thursday that NewsChannel 5 Nasvhille’s Steve Layman would replace current lead broadcaster John Freeman, who was hired in early August but revealed Monday he would be leaving for his alma mater, University of Virginia, before the start of the Bruins’ season.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to call Belmont basketball games this winter,” Layman said in an interview with Belmont Athletics. “There’s nothing like the thrill of calling a live sports event and college basketball is one of my first loves.”
Stepping up to fill the role, Layman will be heading straight into action for the Bruins’ game against University of Evansville in the Curb Event Center, and Belmont’s athletics department is pleased to have him.
“Steve Layman is a respected, award-winning broadcaster who will elevate our men’s basketball broadcast and program visibility,” Belmont Vice President, Director of Athletics Scott Corley told Belmont Athletics.
Layman is the current sports anchor of NewsChannel 5’s “Sportsline” and brings 10 years of experience with the CBS affiliate station, where he will continue working while he calls for Belmont.
Layman has also been recognized by the Associated Press and the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters for his contributions to sports broadcasting.
Other experiences he brings to Belmont Athletics include play-by-play coverage for University of Illinois Athletics and work as the sports director for KOKI-TV.
“To have the chance to live out those passions at a first-class university like Belmont is truly a blessing,” Layman said. “I’m humbled to have the chance to now be a part of this great program and can’t wait to get started.”
Belmont men’s basketball takes to the home court for the 2021-22 season Saturday at 4 p.m. to take on the Evansville Aces. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and Belmont’s own Bruin Sports Network.
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PHOTO: Steve Layman in the university announcement posted to Belmont social media. Belmont Athletics / NewsChannel 5 Nashville WTVF.
This article was written by Jessica Mattsson.