Bill Land, who has been the voice behind many of the San Antonio Spurs’ successful seasons, is retiring after 21 years. Land, a television play-by-play announcer, announced his retirement before the 2024-2025 season. He had disclosed earlier in the previous season that he was battling multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer, yet he continued to cover most Spurs games, including many on the road.
Land has been a significant presence in Spurs broadcasts since 2003 and became the lead play-by-play announcer in 2008. During his tenure, San Antonio clinched four NBA championships, with wins in 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014.
Land’s contributions are closely linked with the Spurs’ history. When the team missed the playoffs in 2020, it was the first time since 1997. Land’s signature “OH MAMA!” calls were a staple through many of the franchise’s key moments. With the arrival of Tony Parker in 2001 and Manu Ginobili in 2002, Land’s commentary covered the peak years of the Spurs’ “Big 3,” including Tim Duncan, reaching audiences across San Antonio and beyond on Bally Sports Southwest (formerly Fox Sports Southwest) and local affiliates.
Originally from DeKalb, Illinois, Land’s time with the Spurs also saw the era of Kawhi Leonard, the team’s 50th anniversary season with a record-breaking game at the Alamodome in 2023, and the beginning of the Victor Wembanyama era last fall.
Land’s career, which began in 1974 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, includes roles as a TV sports anchor, radio host, and play-by-play announcer for the Texas Rangers, Tulsa Roughnecks, and various college programs. He joined the Spurs broadcast team in 1990 as a fill-in announcer.
Mike Kickirillo, Senior Director of Broadcasting for Spurs Sports & Entertainment, praised Land’s impact, noting his passion and distinctive voice that resonated with fans and made him a cherished figure in Spurs history.
