Broadcaster's Voice Conquers Disability, Earns Hall of Fame

Chris Carrino, the distinguished radio play-by-play announcer for the Brooklyn Nets, has been honored with induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, receiving the Curt Gowdy Media Award for his significant contributions to basketball broadcasting. Carrino, 55, has been the voice of the Nets on the radio for nearly a quarter-century, earning widespread praise for his skillful and rhythmic calls of the game. His induction celebrates his exceptional talent, recognized as being among the elite in sports broadcasting.

Carrino's journey is marked by his resilience in the face of adversity. More than three decades ago, at age 23, he was diagnosed with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a rare genetic disease that causes progressive muscle weakness and has placed him in a wheelchair. Despite this challenge, Carrino has focused on his ability and passion for broadcasting, drawing inspiration from legendary announcers and mentors like Marty Glickman.

A strong support system has been crucial to Carrino's success. His wife, Laura, his broadcast partner Tim Capstraw, and his son Chris Carrino Jr. have provided unwavering encouragement. Laura, who met Carrino in 2000, embraced the challenges of his condition, including the possibility of their future offspring inheriting FSHD. Capstraw has been instrumental, offering both on-air synergy and practical assistance off the air as Carrino's mobility decreased.

Beyond his broadcasting career, Carrino has become a vocal advocate for FSHD. In 2010, he established the Chris Carrino Foundation for FSHD, which has since raised $2 million for research and clinical trials. This initiative reflects his determination to not only overcome his own challenges but also to support others affected by the disease. Carrino will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts, in August.