ORLANDO, Fla. – David Steele, the voice of the Orlando Magic for 37 years, announced his retirement today.
Steele started as the radio play-by-play announcer in 1989 for the Magic and has been the TV play-by-play announcer since 1998.
“We made the decision pretty soon after the season ended that that was going to be it,” Steele said in an interview with News 6 Sports Director Jamie Seh. “I have been cautiously anticipating the announcement day.”
Steele began his broadcasting career 51 years ago. He was the Florida Gators play-by-play announcer for seven years before joining the Magic. He’s called all the big moments for the Magic. From two NBA Finals trips, one with Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway and one with Dwight Howard, to some lean years and now with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Steele has been on the call through it all.
“[My message to fans] is just, thanks,” Steele said. “I think they are the best. They are so dedicated.”
Dante Marchitelli, studio host and sideline reporter for the Magic, will step in as the new TV play-by-play announcer.
Watch the full sit-down interview with Steele and Seh in the video above.