(Jun. 1, 1929 – Jan. 21, 2023) Bill Schonely will always be remembered as the voice of the Portland Trail Blazers. He provided the radio play-by-play voice for nearly 30 years and coined the phrase “Rip City” during his first year broadcasting games. While broadcasting over 2,500 NBA games, “The Schonz” became the team’s unofficial ambassador through both his game broadcasts and his off-season community visits throughout Oregon. He also served as the television play-by-play announcer for two seasons (1992-1994).

His 28-year tenure with the Blazers is the third longest in NBA history. While becoming the most familiar broadcast voice in the state of Oregon, Schonely worked extensively for the American Heart Association, Life Flight and MDA Charities.

The Schonely Lifetime Achievement Award, named in his honor, is presented as merited by the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame.