Bill Raftery
Definition
Bill Raftery is an American former college basketball player and current television color commentator, renowned for his enthusiastic and colorful coverage of NCAA March Madness tournaments on CBS and Turner Sports.
Known for signature phrases like 'Onions!' (for tough shots), 'Send it in!' and 'Big fella!', Raftery has become a beloved figure in sports broadcasting since the 1980s.
Examples
Bill Raftery lit up the broadcast when he yelled 'Onions!' after that clutch three-pointer drained from half-court.
Fans everywhere mimic Bill Raftery shouting 'Send it in!' every time a player attacks the rim with reckless abandon.
During March Madness, Bill Raftery's 'Big fella' call for dominant centers turns ordinary dunks into legendary moments.
Bill Raftery once quipped that a missed free throw was 'sharper than a porcupine's quill' – pure broadcasting gold.