SALT LAKE CITY, June 28 -- Utah Jazz Vice President of Broadcasting Randy Rigby announced today during the NBA Draft that the team had come to terms for a new five-year contract for veteran play-by-play announcer Rod Hundley.

Hot Rod Hundley has been the voice of the Utah Jazz for a remarkable 26 years. (NBA Photos)

"Rod is a symbol of the stability of this franchise," Rigby said. "He has seen it all, from the years as a struggling team to two consecutive trips to the NBA Finals. No one wants this team to succeed more than Rod, and he transfers his excitement and passion for the game to his listening audience. We're excited to have Rod remain a part of the Jazz family."

Hundley, the only announcer the Jazz has ever had, will begin his 27th season providing play-by-play for Jazz games on radio and television this coming season. One of the two remaining members of the original Jazz staff from New Orleans, Hundley calls games with a distinctive voice and unique play-by-play style that has made him instantly recognizable to audiences nationwide.

Prior to being the voice of the New Orleans Jazz in 1974, Hundley worked two seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers and five seasons for the Phoenix Suns. He announced five years for CBS-TV, including four All-Star Games, and called two All-Star Games on ABC Radio.

A three year All-American at West Virginia where he earned the nickname "Hot Rod" for his flamboyant playing style, Hundley was the first pick in the 1958 NBA College Draft by the Minneapolis Lakers. He played six seasons for the Lakers, earning All-Star honors in 1959-60 and 1960-61, before retiring following the 1962-63 season.

In 1982 he was named to the NCAA's silver anniversary All-America team, an award given to former collegiate athletes who achieve success in life after their basketball careers. He is a member of the State of West Virginia Hall of Fame and a 1992 inductee of the West Virginia University Hall of Fame.

Rod recently graduated from West Virginia, fulfilling a life-long dream to complete his college education. He also recently co-authored You Gotta Love It, Baby, a book on his life and broadcast experiences. He stays busy during the offseason doing basketball clinics around the country and working with charities in the Salt Lake City area. The father of three daughters (Kimberly, Jackie and Jennifer), Rod has homes in Salt Lake City and Phoenix.