Steve Albert retires

Steve Albert has called his final game for the Phoenix Suns.

Albert announced his retirement from broadcasting on Tuesday. He’s been the play-by-play voice of the Suns on television since 2012.

Albert’s 45-year career includes 13 years with the New Jersey Nets, five with the Golden State Warriors and a season with the New Orleans Hornets.

In his statement, Albert cited the travel that comes with an 82-game schedule as an important component of his decision.

“After 45 years in sportscasting, including the past five years as television play-by-play announcer for the Phoenix Suns, I have decided to step away from the business. By doing this now while I’m relatively young and healthy, it gives me the time to pursue other interests and do things with family and friends that wouldn’t ordinarily be possible when you have an 82-game schedule that includes so much traveling and unusual hours. This was not a particularly easy decision because I still enjoy calling the games, the creativity involved with that, and the camaraderie. The major factor was the travel lifestyle.

I just wish the Suns had happened 20 years ago but it wasn’t in the cards. That said, I’m very grateful to the Suns organization for bringing me in five years ago when I wasn’t exactly 25 years old. These past five years have been a tremendous experience and I’ll take away some great memories. I truly enjoyed working with all of my broadcast colleagues and the production crew. These are good and talented people. I thank them for laughing at my silly jokes although much of it, I’m sure, was out of mercy. Seriously, I hope in some small way I made a difference and provided entertainment, information and honesty during the broadcasts. If nothing else, getting to know Al McCoy made this all worthwhile and it’s an honor to be able to call him a friend.

I’m thankful to the fans and the local media who were so gracious and I’m most appreciative for their kindness and acceptance while I was here.

This is all I ever wanted to do and I got to do it for nearly five decades. Growing up in a broadcasting family, three brothers who all wanted to do the same thing, was amazing. But it feels like I’ve been doing this since I started walking. It actually feels like it’s been longer than 45 years, since I began so young. I was about seven when I knew what I wanted to do and there was no looking back. It’s been a privilege to be in this profession my entire adult life and it’s been quite a run. I’m so fortunate to be able to go out on my terms.

I’m not exactly sure what the future holds but I’m excited about starting this new chapter in life. I do know that I’ve always wanted to write a book. At least now, I’ll have time to read one.”

He’s perhaps best known for his work in boxing. Albert has called some of the sport’s biggest fights, including both Mike-Tyson versus Evander Holyfield duels.

Albert was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007. He’s also called games in the NFL, NHL, and Major League Baseball.