Who is Braiden Bell? Trail Blazers' new TV play

Key Points:

• The Portland Trail Blazers have hired 29-year-old Braiden Bell as their new television play-by-play commentator, replacing longtime announcer Kevin Calabro who left after his contract was not renewed to his satisfaction.
• Bell, previously calling games for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury and the G League’s Valley Suns, was chosen over other experienced candidates due to his on-air presence, chemistry with color commentator Lamar Hurd, versatility, and eagerness to engage with the Portland community.
• Bell will work alongside Lamar Hurd and courtside reporter Brooke Olzendam on the Rip City Television Network, and is expected to participate in additional team programming and appearances around Portland.
• Bell graduated from Arizona State University in 2019 and has rapidly advanced his broadcasting career, including calling multiple sports at Cal Baptist, Sun Devils games for ESPN+, and serving as the inaugural play-by-play voice for the Valley Suns.
• The Blazers’ broadcast overhaul follows new owner Tom Dundon's cost-cutting measures; Calabro, who had been the team's voice for over 40 years, left after rejecting a contract extension offer, paving the way for Bell to assume the role before the season opener on October 21.