SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — For more than four decades, Utah Jazz fans have been greeted by the voice of Dan Roberts, the man who’s booming calls became a part of the team’s identity.
Now, that iconic mic passes to Marque Denmon, a veteran announcer bringing his own electrifying energy to the arena.
“I am at the Delta Center, and it is ready to be turned upside down,” he said. “You ready?”
An Atlanta native, Denmon has spent the last 18 years calling live sporting events around the globe — from Major League Baseball to the Harlem Globetrotters. When the Jazz opened a national search to replace a 46-year legend, Denmon threw his voice into the mix — and stood out.
“I studied Dan,” he said. “When someone has been around for 46 years, you learn to study the great ones.”
After an arduous five-month audition process, including Salt Lake City Summer League trials, Denmon got the call every announcer dreams of — the chance to be the new voice of an NBA franchise.
“I have been waiting and building for this moment,” Marque replied. “This is not a job anybody can step into,” he admitted. It’s a role that demands passion, precision and a voice built to last all season. “The Globetrotters qualified me for that because they do 100 games in four months,” he added.
Denmon told Kenney what stands out most about his new home is the people.
“Man, the community,” he smiled. “These people know basketball. Jazz fans are the best, diehard.”
And while his voice will be new, his respect for the man before him is unwavering.
“You will never forget Dan Roberts. That’s first and foremost. But I come to bring an ultra-magnetic sound, energy, experience, and magnetism.”
As one era ends, another begins. The same passion and same love for the game will echo through the Delta Center.
When the Jazz host the Clippers on Oct. 22, Denmon says fans can expect one thing — “an opening night for the books.”
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