For 42 years Mike Roberts’ voice rang true to UNM Athletics. While the former broadcaster started with New Mexico football, Lobos fans will largely associate his commentary with basketball.
On Tuesday afternoon, Roberts passed away at age 83 after a bout with cancer.
The longtime UNM announcer sealed his legacy with a tenure that ran from 1966 through 2008. Just a year after being hired on the New Mexico broadcasting team, Roberts switched over to basketball and facilitated a familiar voice for Lobos fans over the airwaves.
Though Roberts stuck with basketball, the announcer commentated on UNM’s only bowl win – a 23-0 romping of Nevada – in 54 years, during the Rocky Long Era.
In the midst of a 47-year career in the media, Roberts was honored as New Mexico Sportscaster of the Year 13 times.
In the world of journalism, sportscasters, broadcasters, and reporters are taught to be unbiased and remain neutral. Lobos fans did not seem to raise too much of a fuss over the “homer” mentality and obvious support Roberts showcased in support of UNM athletics.
Roberts crossed a few state lines, according to a UNM release, before calling Albuquerque and New Mexico his home.
Albuquerque is where Roberts passed, and where the broadcaster’s legacy emerged and ended.
Liam Cary-Eaves is the sports editor for the Daily Lobo. He primarily covers volleyball, women’s basketball and baseball. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @Liam_CE.
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