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On Tuesday, Jan. 7, the National Sports Media Association (NSMA) announced its annual awards with Troy University Athletics broadcaster Barry McKnight being named co-winner of the Alabama Sportscaster of the Year. 

Previously, McKnight was named one of four other finalists for the award, which included UAB Sports Network’s David Crane, CBS 42’s Dee Jackson, WVTM’s Ryan Hennessey and WKRG’s Simone Eli. McKnight was named the co-winner – in a tie – with Crane. 

“I’m deeply gratified by this,” McKnight told The Messenger. “This is the pinnacle organization of its kind in the country and to get this kind of award and especially to share it with someone like David, who I’ve known for 30 years, makes it that much more of an honor. It’s difficult to put into words what it means to me – and my wife (Denise McKnight) – we’re just so deeply gratified.” 

McKnight has been the lead announcer for Troy Athletics, on radio and ESPN+ broadcasts, since 2002, as well as being a staple on sports radio in the Montgomery area since 1997. McKnight has won numerous broadcasting awards from the likes of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, Associated Press and more. He commentates for virtually all sports at Troy, including football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball and soccer.  

In addition to his work on radio and with Troy Athletics, McKnight has called games for Auburn Baseball, minor league baseball and others in the past. Some of the awards he’s captured include the past includes the AP Award for Broadcast Excellence, AP Play-by-Play Broadcaster of the Year and the Sun Belt Conference Broadcaster of the Year.  

McKnight can now add Alabama Sportscaster of the Year to his long list of accolades, but the ever gracious McKnight is quick to point out that the award is possible because of his partners at Troy.

“Anybody that sees this award – especially if you know me – you know how much of it is due to someone like Jerry Miller and the impact and input on the broadcast he has, along with Chris Blackshear and those other guys,” McKnight emphasized. “I texted them all and let them know that it’s down to all of them, not just me. This is our award. It’s an honor and also a chance for me to thank all of the people that have had a part in this; Jerry, Chris and everyone over here at Troy Athletics. This has been a real source of pride for me for years to work at this place and do what I get to do.”