Kevin Calabro, who spent 32 years in the sports broadcasting booth, decided to walk away after a tense exchange over the term 'subprime.' The former Trail Blazers TV announcer told The Oregonian that the team's latest contract offer wasn't worth his time. The word itself caused a stir in Portland. Dundon, who owns the team, earned part of his wealth through subprime lending. In 2020, his company paid $550 million to settle claims of predatory lending by several state attorneys general, including Oregon’s.
A legacy and a loaded term
Calabro, 63, had broadcast 13 seasons of Blazers games and worked alongside two of the franchise’s most trusted voices. He said the offer lacked value. Calling it 'subprime' described more than the contract—it brought up Dundon's past business, the financial details, and the sharp word choice. Together, they sparked a story that spread quickly online and in fan discussions.
Calabro said he felt lucky to have held one of just 30 broadcasting jobs in the league and worked close to his home in Seattle. He added that he would always be part of Blazers history and cherished the memories and friendships made there. He seemed at peace, stating the choice was straightforward.
A pattern, a purge
The Blazers' broadcasting lineup is missing five prominent voices. Calabro is joined by analysts Michael Holton and Tom Haberstroh, hosts Neil Everett and Jamie Hudson, and Haberstroh, who no longer has a contract. This shift follows a broader overhaul of the team’s front office since Dundon's $4.25 billion purchase in April 2023. About 70 front-office roles were cut. Haberstroh said the Blazers’ broadcast team was the best in the league. 'I am grateful for being part of the best broadcast crew in the NBA and for being part of the team's rise,' he wrote.
Calabro is not hanging up the mic. He mentioned he has talks planned with other NBA teams and is open to freelance or college broadcasting. His career includes 31 years on the air. He was the voice of the Seattle SuperSonics for 22 seasons. With the possibility of NBA expansion to Seattle, fans are already asking for his return.
A stalled project and a fan’s dread
As the front office restructures, the Moda Center’s $600 million renovation remains stuck. Oregon has committed $365 million, but the Portland City Council has not approved it. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in August that the project had 'gone off track in various ways.' What started as a contract issue is now linked to the future of the arena, the team's direction, and fan loyalty.
A fan noted, 'It must feel eerie for Calabro, considering what happened with the Sonics.' The worry is real. The Sonics moved in 2008. The Moda Center still stands. But doubt lingers over what might come next.