Ray Clay has etched his legacy into the heart of Chicago.
While the iconic trio of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman take center stage in the story of the 1990s Chicago Bulls, Clay’s presence was felt throughout their remarkable journey to six NBA championships.
For nearly thirteen years, Clay served as the public address announcer, bringing the electric atmosphere of the United Center to life.
He was the creative genius behind the unforgettable introductions that echoed through the arena, perfectly accompanied by The Alan Parsons Project’s stirring anthem, ‘Sirius.’
Ray Clay’s signature call, “Aaaaand now… the starting line-up… for your… Chicago Bulls!”—along with the iconic “Froooom North Carolina… at guard… 6ft 6in… Michael Jordan”—became synonymous with the glory years of the Bulls, turning every game’s preamble into a must-see spectacle.
When Jordan first retired after claiming his second three-peat in 1998, it felt like the end of an era. However, in 2001, the basketball world was abuzz again as MJ decided to come out of retirement to play for the Washington Wizards.
As the anticipation built for Jordan’s return to the United Center, fans held their breath, wondering if Clay would once again have the honor of introducing the man they once revered.
Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Clay admitted, “At first, I had my doubts, but deep down, I realized the audience wanted nothing less than a rousing introduction for Mike.”
“A print media journalist inquired about my plans for announcing Michael’s return, and I candidly shared that nobody from the team had briefed me on how to handle it. I felt the crowd deserved to hear him introduced the way I had so many times before.”
Despite his eagerness to deliver the iconic introduction, team management directed Clay to treat Jordan as just another opposing player, which reportedly unsettled the announcer.
On January 19, 2002, the United Center buzzed with excitement as fans welcomed MJ back, this time in Wizards colors.
With hearts racing, Clay proceeded to introduce him, yet the moment was tinged with sadness. SportsCenter later reported, “What transpired was a mere shadow of the intro Clay envisioned, the very same that electrified the arena during those championship years.”
Clay’s familiar cadence had been muted, signaling the beginning of a troubling chapter for him within the organization.
In May 2002, he was reportedly fired, though the franchise offered no official explanation. Clay speculated that the reason stemmed from his disagreement over Jordan’s introduction.
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Fast forward to a tweet in 2021 from former ESPN analyst Darren Rovell: “The Bulls parted ways with Ray Clay, the unforgettable voice of the Bulls lineup during all their championship years, due to what he says was a dispute over MJ’s introduction as a Washington Wizard.”
“Clay wanted to give his usual introduction, while team management disagreed.”
Fortunately, a silver lining emerged when the Philadelphia 76ers decided to invite him back to announce Jordan’s final game in the NBA.
Clay maintained a cherished connection with Chicago, eventually joining WNBA’s Chicago Sky as their announcer in 2006.
After announcing for the Sky for twelve glorious years, Clay decided to retire in 2019. Yet, in a surprise turn of events, he emerged from retirement in 2024 to become the PA announcer for the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field, reconnecting with his sports roots.
Jordan, who hung up his sneakers for good in 2003, remained a pivotal figure in basketball. By 2006, he had joined the ownership ranks of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets (then the Bobcats), ultimately becoming the majority owner in 2010 and selling his majority stake in 2023.
In addition, Jordan expanded his empire into the world of NASCAR with 23XI Racing and continues to rake in royalties from the beloved Air Jordan brand.
He made history as the first billionaire player in the NBA, with LeBron James following in his footsteps.
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As the NBA heads towards another thrilling playoff season, every game counts more than ever.
Current champions, the Boston Celtics, are aiming for back-to-back titles, a feat not achieved since 2018.
Meanwhile, LeBron James and Luka Dončić’s Lakers are vying for LA’s first championship since 2020.
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