Charlotte and Atlanta showed plenty of rust Wednesday during the Hornets' 116-110 season-opening win over the Hawks. Charlotte play-by-play broadcaster Eric Collins, however, proved to viewers he's already in midseason form.
Renowned for his passionate and eclectic style of describing game action, Collins colorfully described how Hornets center Mark Williams snatched Trae Young's lay-up attempt out of the air.
MARK WILLIAMS MY GOODNESS.
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 26, 2023
pic.twitter.com/eYGUYeeFVL
"Oh my goodness! Just emasculated him!"
Collins — the play-by-play man for Hornets TV broadcasts since 2015 — has gone viral on social media many times during his tenure. For thunderous dunks, he has established go-to catchphrases such as "How do you do?" and "Hum Diddle Dee!"
The best announcer in the NBA:
— Charlotte Hornets Portugal (@HornetsPortugal) July 27, 2023
It's Eric Collins everybody pic.twitter.com/75qIO6uI2h
Collins's robust broadcasting energy doesn't change just because the sport he's calling does.
During a Central Florida-Baylor football game earlier this season, he seemingly took the audience through all the emotions of the quarterback frantically scrambling to complete a pass with the game on the line.
WOAH
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 30, 2023
McClain is INSANE @BUFootball pic.twitter.com/bDlSveU8fe
It isn't just the fans who enjoy Collins's work. Hornets players do, too. Charlotte forward P.J. Washington has called Collins the "best announcer in the NBA."
The Hornets probably will not contend for an NBA title this season. However, they have a young core headlined by LaMelo Ball, Washington and the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Brandon Miller. Even if they don't win many games, there is plenty of potential for exciting basketball.
Not to mention, plenty of potential for Collins to colorfully describe the action.
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