50 Seasons Later, George Blaha Is Still HIM

50 years.

Let that sink in for a second.

In an era where most players don’t even last five years on the same team, George Blaha has been calling Detroit Pistons games for five decades straight.

Through the highs, the heartbreaks, the “Deee-troit Basketball!” chants, and every rebuild in between — Blaha’s voice has been the one constant in the Motor City.

And that voice? Man, that voice is Detroit.

He’s seen it all: from Bob Lanier and Dave Bing, to the Bad Boys, to the Goin’ to Work era, and now the young guns led by Cade Cunningham.

When you’ve called over 3,700 regular-season games, 260 playoff games, three championships, and five NBA Finals, you’ve earned your flowers.

What makes Blaha special isn’t just his longevity — it’s his love. Dude still sounds just as excited calling a Pistons fast break in 2025 as he did back in 1976 at Cobo Arena.

That same energy. That same joy. That same Detroit grit.

He’s the soundtrack of generations. Ask your pops. He remembers Blaha calling Isiah to Dumars. Ask your kid. They hear him calling Cade to Duren. And somehow, it still hits the same.

Blaha’s also been doing his thing with Michigan State football for nearly half a century, calling Spartans games like it’s second nature. That dual-sport grind is unheard of today, especially at his level.

And the accolades? They speak for themselves. Two-time Michigan Sportscaster of the Year. Michigan Sports Hall of Fame inductee. And now, the Curt Gowdy Media Award, basketball media’s equivalent of a championship ring.

But what I love most about Blaha is his humility. When asked about all the recognition, he didn’t brag or flex. He just said he was “honored and a little bit humbled.” 

That’s real. That’s class. That’s George Blaha.

He’s more than just a broadcaster. He’s family. He’s that familiar voice on a snowy January night when the Pistons tip off at LCA. He’s comfort food for Detroit hoops fans. He’s proof that passion and consistency still matter in a world obsessed with quick fame and hot takes.

So here’s to you, George Blaha. 50 years of greatness, of loyalty, of professionalism, and of being the voice of the people.

Because let’s be honest… it just wouldn’t sound right without you.

“Deee-troit Basketball!” hits different when you say it.