Former Jazz play-by-play announcer "HOT ROD" HUNDLEY died Friday in his Phoenix-area home at the age of 80, according to Aaron Falk of the SALT LAKE TRIBUNE. Hundley's "easy West Virginia sensibilities and unmistakable vocal stylings and phrasings followed the Jazz from their inception in New Orleans" in '74 through 35 seasons. He had been "dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease for several years" (SALT LAKE TRIBUNE, 3/28). Jazz Owner GAIL MILLER in a statement said, "The expressions he used throughout the game broadcasts are legendary" (AP, 3/28). In N.Y., Richard Goldstein noted Hundley was a broadcaster for the Lakers, Suns, CBS and then the Jazz. His "fast-paced style at the microphone, his wit and his storehouse of knowledge about the Jazz’s history made him one of the most recognizable personalities in Utah." Hundley in '03 "became the first former player to receive the Curt Gowdy Media Award" from the Basketball HOF (N.Y. TIMES, 3/29). In Phoenix, Paul Coro noted the Jazz' media room is dedicated to Hundley, who "called 3,051 games" for the team. Hundley also "was a Suns radio analyst for five seasons" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 3/28). In Salt Lake City, Kurt Kragthorpe wrote Hundley's legacy "will last forever with anyone who followed the Jazz during their first three decades in Utah." The Jazz must "figure out a way for every fan to visit" the Hot Rod Hundley Media Center sometime this year, as it is something "they've got to see, to help them remember an unforgettable man." His value to the franchise "cannot be overstated." Hundley "became many fans' primary connection to the team, and for a long time was as recognizable as any player" (SALT LAKE TRIBUNE, 3/29). In Utah, Brad Rock wrote Hundley’s connection with Utahns was "strong because his persona wasn't far from reality." He was "as likable as he seemed" (DESERETNEWS.com, 3/29). In Baton Rouge, Les East wrote Hundley was a "central figure in a unique era in New Orleans sports history" (Baton Rouge ADVOCATE, 3/29). In West Virginia, Chuck McGill wrote Hundley, the "clown prince of college basketball, the jester of the hardcourt, didn’t leave those who knew him with anything but fond memories" (CHARLESTON DAILY MAIL, 3/29).
