Bill Raftery Reflects on Final Four, NIL, and His Broadcasting Journey

Palm Beach, Fla. — At 81, veteran sports broadcaster Bill Raftery prepares for a monumental milestone: his 10th Final Four as a commentator for CBS Sports and an impressive 30th overall, encompassing TV and radio. In an exclusive interview with Front Office Sports, Raftery shared insights on his broadcasting journey, his thoughts on name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations, and his favorite venues in college basketball.

“The chemistry with Ian Eagle and Grant Hill has really picked up in our second season together,” Raftery said when asked about teamwork. “It’s all about enjoying each other’s company and sharing experiences. As a group, we feel very comfortable working with one another.”

As a beloved figure in college basketball, Raftery’s longevity in the industry raises the question: how much longer does he intend to continue? “I never really think about it,” he responded. “I’ve been blessed with support from others, and I take each year as it comes. Every tournament feels rejuvenating, making me look forward to each season.”

Raftery also weighed in on the current landscape of college sports, specifically targeting NIL and the transfer portal. “It’s an adjustment, similar to accepting the rules of basketball. Whether you like it or not, you must adapt and move forward. I think calmer heads will prevail; some corrections are necessary to make things more feasible for young players,” he stated.

Among the venues that hold a special place in Raftery’s heart are those rich in tradition and passionate fanbases. “I have a soft spot for the old schools. Places like the Palestra at the University of Pennsylvania, Gallagher-Iba Arena in Oklahoma, and the electric atmosphere at Kansas stand out. The Big Ten venues, in particular, foster an intense competitive spirit,” he shared.

Reflecting on memorable moments from his career, Raftery cited the six-overtime game between Syracuse and UConn in 2009 as a standout. He recalled the chaos as energy waned in the players. “Jim Boeheim was running out of bodies on the floor, and one frantic guard was jumping around, contrasting sharply with the exhaustion of the others,” Raftery described, adding that the famous dunk by Jerome Lane that shattered a backboard was another unforgettable highlight.

When discussing his favorite bars and restaurants while on the road, Raftery humorously noted, “I love the ones that don’t turn the lights off early. Mo’s in Milwaukee and P.J. Clarke’s in New York are staples during tournament time, while Gibson’s in Chicago remains a favorite.”

As he gears up for this year’s Final Four, Raftery’s passion for the game and camaraderie with colleagues remains unwavering, keeping him engaged with the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball.