March 23, 2025 – New York, NY
For more than 20 years, Mike Breen has been a cherished voice for New York sports fans as the play-by-play announcer for the New York Knicks. But on Saturday, he took a moment to pay tribute to a legendary broadcaster who, in his view, has set the gold standard in the industry—Sam Rosen.
Before the New York Rangers faced off against the Vancouver Canucks, Madison Square Garden hosted a special ceremony honoring Rosen’s remarkable career as the Rangers’ TV play-by-play announcer. With his retirement approaching at the end of the 2024-25 NHL season, the organization celebrated his decades of dedication.
Later that day, during the Knicks’ game against the Washington Wizards, Breen praised his longtime MSG colleague, recognizing Rosen’s influence and legacy.
“We all love Sam—everyone who works with the Rangers or Knicks. It’s a privilege to be here, and there’s a responsibility to maintain the high standards that Sam Rosen has upheld for so many years,” Breen said. “He has set the bar for broadcasters in this city. I know I’m just one of many, whether at The Garden or across the industry, who admire Sam. We thank him for showing us how it’s done, for setting such a high benchmark. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition at Madison Square Garden.”
Knicks legend Walt Frazier echoed the sentiment, describing Rosen as a “great person” who has always been warm and encouraging.
“Yeah, he’s just a wonderful guy,” Frazier added. “Always gracious, always friendly. Congratulations, Sam. We’re going to miss you.”
Rosen, who has been the Rangers’ lead TV announcer since 1982, hopes for a sendoff similar to that of Yankees radio icon John Sterling last fall. If the Rangers clinch a playoff spot, he hopes to call their postseason run one last time.
As of now, the Rangers are narrowly outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture, trailing the Montreal Canadiens by just one point for the final Wild Card spot.
Still, regardless of whether he gets a farewell playoff call, Mike Breen made it clear—Sam Rosen has already cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats in sports broadcasting.
