Craig Ackerman is a key voice for basketball fans, serving as the play-by-play announcer for the Houston Rockets on Space City Home Network. He has been with the Rockets organization since 1994 and has transitioned from radio to television, bringing his energetic commentary to a wider audience.
Ackerman’s deep connection with the team and his engaging style make him a favorite among Rockets fans.
Born on August 27, 1974, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Ackerman has built a robust career in sports broadcasting. He graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1997, which is where he met his wife, Shannon. Besides his professional achievements, Ackerman is known for his love of traveling and spending time with his family, including his two children, Craig Jr. and Chase.
Ackerman’s career took a significant step forward when he became the full-time play-by-play announcer for the Rockets. His work, along with that of his new TV color commentator Ryan Hollins, enhances the viewing experience for fans. His dedication and talent have made him an essential part of the Rockets’ broadcast team.
Who Is Craig Ackerman?
Craig Ackerman is a well-known play-by-play announcer for the Houston Rockets. With a career spanning nearly three decades, he is a familiar voice in the world of basketball. He has personal connections to various places and a strong family background.
Where Did Craig Ackerman Grow Up?
Craig Ackerman was born on August 27, 1974, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. He grew up in this part of Ohio, forming the foundation for his future career in sports broadcasting.
Growing up in a supportive family environment, Craig found his passion for basketball and sports commentary early on. He later relocated to Texas for his higher education and professional career, significantly changing his life path.
Where Does Craig Ackerman Live?
Craig Ackerman currently resides in Houston, Texas. He has lived here for many years, working closely with the Houston Rockets, a major team in the NBA. His role as a play-by-play announcer requires him to be present for games and other team-related activities, making Houston an ideal location for him and his family.
Who Is Craig Ackerman Married To?
Craig Ackerman is married to Shannon, whom he met while attending Sam Houston State University. They have built a life together, sharing interests in sports and family activities. The couple has two children, Craig Jr. and Chase, with whom they spend quality time during their free moments. Family remains an essential aspect of Craig’s life, balancing his professional commitments with his role as a husband and father.
Craig Ackerman Basketball Career
Craig Ackerman, known for his role as a play-by-play announcer for the Houston Rockets, has a background that spans various aspects of basketball, from college to professional levels.
Where Did Craig Ackerman Play College Basketball?
Craig Ackerman attended Sam Houston State University. While he did not play on the college basketball team, his time at the university was pivotal for his career.
He engaged deeply with the sport, honing his skills in broadcasting and developing a passion that would shape his professional path. This interest in basketball, coupled with his academic pursuits, set the stage for his future endeavors with the Houston Rockets.
Did Craig Ackerman Play In The NBA?
Craig Ackerman has not played in the NBA. His contributions to the league are through his excellent broadcasting work. Fans of the Houston Rockets are familiar with his enthusiastic and insightful commentary during games. Despite not being an NBA player, his knowledge of the game and ability to convey the excitement of postseason matches have made him a beloved figure in the Rockets’ franchise.
Did Craig Ackerman Coach College Basketball?
Craig Ackerman did not coach college basketball. His career trajectory stayed focused on broadcasting and sports journalism rather than coaching.
During his time at Sam Houston State University, his interests leaned heavily towards media and communication. This focus allowed him to build a robust foundation in sports broadcasting, rather than taking the path of coaching teams at the college level.
Did Craig Ackerman Coach In The NBA?
Craig Ackerman has also not coached in the NBA. His primary role has always been in sports media.
Since joining the Houston Rockets, he has been dedicated to delivering high-quality play-by-play commentary. His partnership with analysts, like Ryan Hollins, emphasizes his commitment to enhancing the fan experience through detailed and engaging coverage of games featuring players like Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr..
Craig Ackerman Professional Broadcasting Career
Craig Ackerman has had a longstanding career in sports broadcasting, particularly with the Houston Rockets. His journey includes significant tenures with major networks and partnerships with well-known commentators.
What Network Has Craig Ackerman Previously Worked For?
Craig Ackerman previously worked for Sportstalk 790. During his time there, he was heavily involved in covering various sports events, most notably the Houston Rockets.
Ackerman provided radio broadcasts that captured the excitement of the games and the passion of the team’s fan base. His work at Sportstalk 790 helped solidify his reputation as a talented play-by-play announcer and set the stage for his future endeavors in sports broadcasting.
What Network Is Craig Ackerman Currently Working For?
Craig Ackerman is currently working for AT&T SportsNet Southwest. He assumed full-time play-by-play duties for the Houston Rockets’ television broadcasts starting with the 2021-22 season.
His role involves narrating the live games, bringing both enthusiasm and deep knowledge about basketball to the viewers. Ackerman’s contributions have become a staple for Rockets fans who tune in to watch their favorite team compete.
Who Is Craig Ackerman Broadcast Partner?
Craig Ackerman’s current broadcast partner is Ryan Hollins. Hollins, a former NBA player, joined the broadcast team as the TV color commentator.
Together, Ackerman and Hollins provide dynamic and insightful commentary for Houston Rockets games, enhancing the viewing experience for fans.
Does Craig Ackerman Want To Cover The NBA?
Craig Ackerman has expressed a strong desire to continue covering the NBA.
Ackerman’s passion for basketball and his deep connection to the Houston Rockets make him a vital part of the team’s media presence. His work as the voice of the Rockets showcases his commitment to the sport and his enthusiasm for delivering high-quality broadcasts to basketball fans across the nation.
What Are Craig Ackerman Future Prospects?
Craig Ackerman’s future prospects seem promising within the sports broadcasting field. Given his extensive experience and strong reputation, he might continue to grow his role with the Rockets or even expand to cover more NBA events.
Opportunities for Ackerman could also include higher-profile broadcasting assignments or potential roles in network sports media, similar to other sports media professionals.
Craig Ackerman Major Achievements And Awards
Craig Ackerman’s major achievements include becoming the voice of the Rockets and serving as the play-by-play announcer for both radio and TV broadcasts. He has been a member of the Rockets organization since 1994, demonstrating exceptional dedication and professionalism.
His work has earned him recognition from both fans and peers in the sports broadcasting industry.
Similar Announcers To Craig Ackerman
Similar announcers to Craig Ackerman include Kevin Eschenfelder and Matt Thomas. These individuals, like Ackerman, have also made significant contributions to sports broadcasting, particularly in basketball.
Their ability to provide engaging and insightful commentary makes them stand out in the field. They share Ackerman’s dedication to enhancing the sports viewing experience for fans.
Does Craig Ackerman Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Craig Ackerman does participate in private speaking engagements.
His deep knowledge of basketball, coupled with his engaging speaking style, makes him a sought-after speaker for various events. These engagements allow him to share his experiences and provide insights into the world of sports broadcasting, further establishing his presence beyond television and radio broadcasts.
Does Craig Ackerman Have A Podcast?
Craig Ackerman does not currently have a podcast.
His primary focus remains on providing high-quality broadcasts for the Houston Rockets games. While some sports broadcasters venture into podcasting to share more in-depth analyses and personal stories, Ackerman continues to devote his efforts to his role with AT&T SportsNet Southwest and the live coverage of the Rockets.
What Is Craig Ackerman Net Worth?
Craig Ackerman, the Houston Rockets play-by-play announcer, has accumulated a significant amount of wealth through his career in the NBA. His earnings stem from his contract, annual salary, and other ventures.
How Much Is Craig Ackerman’s Contract For?
Craig Ackerman has a reputedly high-value contract as the play-by-play announcer for the Houston Rockets. While the specific terms of his contract are not widely publicized, it can be inferred from his lengthy career and growing recognition that it is substantial.
With over two decades in the industry, Ackerman has likely negotiated a deal that reflects his experience and value to the team. The exact figures are not disclosed, but industry standards for such roles indicate it could be several hundred thousand dollars annually.
How Much Does Craig Ackerman Make In Salary Per Year?
Ackerman’s annual salary as the Houston Rockets’ announcer plays a crucial role in his net worth. It is reported that he earns a generous salary, which aligns with the compensation for experienced professionals in similar roles within the NBA.
Announcers of his caliber generally make anywhere between $200,000 to $500,000 a year. Considering his esteemed position and years of service, Craig Ackerman’s annual salary likely falls at the higher end of this spectrum.
His consistent performance and popularity among fans have solidified his standing as a key figure in NBA broadcasting.
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