Mike & Mike hosts inducted into NAB Hall Of Fame
Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic, hosts of ESPN Radio’s weekday morning show Mike & Mike (simulcast on ESPN2), were inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in a ceremony Tuesday in Las Vegas. Greeny and Golic are among an esteemed crop of broadcasters in the Hall of Fame, including Bob Uecker, Harry Caray and Vin Scully. The duo, who have hosted their show for more than 16 years, discussed their thoughts on the honor and on their careers.
“The induction of The Mikes into the NAB Radio Hall Of Fame is testament to the size and scope of the community they have created with their show. They have been entertaining sports fans with a consistent brand of humor, sophistication and humility that has endeared them to millions and it is terrific that the NAB is recognizing them in this way.”
– Senior Vice President, ESPN Production Business Divisions, Traug Keller
“Greeny and Golic have set the standard for excellence and winning. Their winning results on all platforms are a testament to over 16 years of hard work, dedication and the essence of teamwork – all key ingredients for true hall of famers in any profession. I’m proud to be on the same team with Mike & Mike.”
– Vice President, ESPN Audio Network Content, David Roberts
“The Mikes have been the gold standard in radio for a long time. They’re very deserving of this honor and to last as long as they have in this business is a testament to the strength of their foundation.”
— Jemele Hill, co-host, His & Hers
What are your thoughts on being named to the NAB Hall of Fame?
Greenberg: It is certainly the greatest honor of my professional life. When I see the list of people who have been inducted it is impossible to imagine being included. But I’m thrilled and very grateful to everyone who supported us.
Golic: I’m stunned. Once you look at the list of people in this Hall of Fame and think that my name is next to these names, I thought one of two things: We’re in a separate category not associated with these great names or it’s a down year and they had to name somebody. I certainly don’t feel I belong with these great names.
What about your career are you most proud of?
Greenberg: I remember when we started, the prevalent thought was that you couldn’t do sports in the morning, and you couldn’t do sports nationally. So, we have done a national morning sports show for more than 16 years, and whatever impact we have made has been beyond any expectation any of us had when we began.
Golic: The longevity, going on 17 years. One of the best things is that people literally grew up with us. I’m most proud that we were able to do the show our way for so many years.
Most memorable interview?
Greenberg: Impossible to say. I guess if I had to pick one I’d say Jerry Seinfeld, he is a personal favorite of mine, and he was every bit as funny and clever as I imagined he’d be.
Golic: That’s a tough one because I played sports all my life and was an athlete. Going on with David Letterman, going to the White House – those are the things I’ll remember more than interviewing an athlete, one of which I was for a while.
Most memorable moment of the show?
Greenberg: Again, so many, but if I had to pick one that happened on the air it would be dancing with Anna Trebunskaya. I really wanted that to come off well and it did. In addition: appearing on Letterman, meeting the President, singing at Wrigley Field, playing tennis with Chris Evert, it’s been a stunning and wonderful ride.
Golic: Paying off bets was always fun. When Greeny got pooped on by the cow was a great moment, when I had to get oiled up and do the Kim Kardashian butt photos was an interesting moment. I didn’t think I’d get painted with a roller with oil by my wife. Having a couple get married on our show. Many moments like that in almost 17 years, those are a few that stand out. Whenever you are oiled up and naked it brings back memories.
Diane Lamb contributed to this post.
