NBA Finals: Breen’s Call Sparks Mixed Reactions

Fans were left somewhat underwhelmed following Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot in the opening game of the NBA Finals, especially with commentator Mike Breen’s distinctive “van” call.

Breen, who has been the voice of the Finals for two decades, opted for a more generic call this time around. Many still appreciated it, though.

He shared his reasoning for not using the signature “Bang” call that typically accompanies pivotal moments like the one that gave the series an early kickstart.

“We really enjoyed such an exciting game and a fantastic comeback,” Breen mentioned, noting that the energy in the series was palpable. He expressed liking Haliburton’s call but later learned it was criticized because he didn’t use the “van” phrase.

“I’ve only used that specific call for two-pointers once before,” he reflected. “It was Kobe Bryant’s playoff-winning shot against Phoenix. Just that one time.”

In retrospect, Breen acknowledged that given the significance of Haliburton’s shot, using “Bang” might have made fans happier, but he isn’t one to dwell on what-ifs. “It truly was an incredible shot,” he stated.

Breen, also the Knicks’ commentator on the MSG network, is known for being selective with his calls. The last one he made prior was in May during a tense match against the Pistons in the playoffs.

Interestingly, Brunson’s shot clinching a Game 6 victory for the Knicks received an even rarer double “Bang” from Breen.

He previously explained that it came down to a series of specific events, and when the moment unfolded, the excitement took over. “It wasn’t something I planned; it just came out during such a thrilling play in a huge playoff atmosphere,” he noted.