Meet the 2019 Award Winners: Texas Sportscaster John Morris

Today’s award spotlight is on NSMA 2019 Texas Sportscaster of the Year, John Morris. Morris is the University of Baylor’s Voice of the Bears and the Assistant Athletic Director for Broadcasting for the Baylor Sports Network. This is his 26th year as the voice of Baylor sports, Morris does Baylor football and men’s basketball full time. Prior to his work with Baylor, the University of Baylor graduate also was a TV sports anchor director for KWTX-TV for 15 years, which he then left to work for Baylor post.

This is Morris’ very first time winning Texas Sportscaster of the Year! His work has also been recognized by the Texas AP Broadcasters for sports play-by-play and the Dallas Press Club for Baylor Basketball broadcasts.

Morris briefly spoke with NSMA on his career and other thoughts regarding the industry.

NSMA: What was your career path like on your way to your current position?

John Morris: Worked at a hometown radio station in Danville, Kentucky thanks to the graciousness of a guy named Steve Bertram who is still calling High School games on WHIR-AM. Majored in Radio/TV and graduated from Baylor University in December 1980. Began working for KWTX-TV in February 1980 and stayed there until June 1995 as Sports Director. Began work at Baylor Athletics in June 1995 and still here. Began doing BU Football broadcasts alongside Frank Fallon in 1987 then succeeded Frank in doing Play by play of all sports in 1995.

NSMA: What is your favorite thing about your job?

JM: Getting to work with such great people in Baylor Athletics and representing my alma mater in this way. Also the excitement of working without a script. You never know what you'll see over the course of a broadcast.

NSMA: What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

JM: Just being a part of and having a front-row seat to so many memorable moments in Baylor Athletics history...and of course being recognized by the NSMA as Texas Co-Sportscaster of the Year.

NSMA: What is the best piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in sports media?

JM: Find a way to get your foot in the door, work hard, and follow your passion.