Jamal Crawford Steps Up as a Broadcaster

Jamal Crawford, a former NBA player with a 20-year career, is now a color commentator for NBC Sports. He partners with Mike Tirico and Reggie Miller to call playoff games, including the intense matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round.

Crawford has hinted at a unique catchphrase he will use during the playoffs. He shared, “You’re the first person I’m telling I have one. Not even Mike and Reggie know this. When you hear it, you’ll know. I’ll give you a little hint: You’re going to hear something about a court.” This secret hasn’t been revealed even to his broadcast partners.

Viewers familiar with Crawford’s energy in the booth may be intrigued by this addition. His broadcasting journey began in 2021 with NBA League Pass. In 2022, he joined TNT as a studio analyst and moved on to MSG Network in 2024, covering New York Knicks’ games. When the NBA returned to NBC, Crawford quickly adapted, forming a connection with Tirico and Miller. He commented, “Reggie is a legend. I still learn and steal from him. Mike is the ultimate point guard.” This camaraderie enhances the quality of their insights during broadcasts.

Jamal Crawford was photographed playing as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers against the Memphis Grizzlies in 2014. This image is a file from Joe Murphy / NBAE via Getty Images.

Beyond the broadcast booth, Crawford contributes to the NBA narrative by narrating “Chasing History,” a digital documentary. He records voice-overs on the go during playoffs. “To be this close to the game is incredible,” he says. Crawford also coaches AAU and works with college and pro players, maintaining a close bond to basketball.

Crawford’s enthusiasm for the game is palpable. He sometimes has to moderate his passion during broadcasts. He explains, “I’m truly a fan of the game in the purest, truest sense.” Looking forward, after the second round, Crawford will focus on the Western Conference finals on NBC. He imagines the excitement of Madison Square Garden reaching the NBA Finals, as he reminisces about playing for the Knicks, longing for playoff nights there.

“Seeing the Knicks reach the Finals would be crazy,” he remarked. New York’s fervent fan base made every game feel intense during his playing days, despite their playoff absence from 2004 to 2009.