Behind The ScenesNFL

Before calling MNF tonight, McDonough reflects on upcoming HBO family profile

Tonight’s Monday Night Football game – Dallas Cowboys versus Arizona Cardinals (8:15 p.m. ET) – is particularly special to ESPN play-by-play voice Sean McDonough because it will be a family affair.

McDonough’s brother Terry is the Cardinals’ Vice President of Player Personnel. His other brother Ryan, the general manager of the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, also lives in the area. During the offseason, McDonough sees his brothers regularly because he has a winter home there. During the season, getting the chance to do a Monday night game in Arizona is a rare treat.

“It’s special for me to broadcast a Cardinals game because of Terry’s involvement with the team and really because of the great job that he has done in Arizona,” said McDonough. “They have a terrific team. I am just very proud of what he has accomplished in his life and his career. To be able to tell his story within our broadcast is exciting for me.”

Speaking of telling a story, “HBO Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel” will profile the McDonough brothers Tuesday night (10 p.m. ET). Correspondent Jon Frankel visits with the three McDonough brothers to hear their stories of growing up in the sports world – the sons of legendary Boston Globe columnist Will McDonough – and to learn how each has risen to the top of his field. HBO shot with ESPN’s McDonough in Arizona this week, last Monday at the Lions-Giants game at MetLife Stadium, and at Fenway Park in Boston.

McDonough welcomes sharing the spotlight with family
Sean McDonough’s thoughts on the “HBO Real Sports” feature about him and his brothers: “Ryan, Terry and I are very honored that HBO wanted to do a feature about us. I am personally excited because they are two great guys and I’ve had enough attention in my life. Ryan and Terry, especially Terry, work under the radar. I am glad to see him get his just due because people within the National Football League know how good he is at what he does. Now, the rest of the country will know it too.”

Mac Nwulu contributed to this post.

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