October 17, 2024 – The Charlotte Hornets today announced that the organization has hired Shawn Parker as their new Public Address Announcer. Parker, who brings a decade of experience in the entertainment industry and public address announcing, will serve as the Hornets in-arena voice at Spectrum Center for all the team’s home games. Parker brings previous NBA public address announcing experience having served in the same capacity with the Minnesota Timberwolves, while also working at the collegiate level at Tennessee State University and George Washinton University. Most recently, he served as a game show host for Great Big Game Show. Parker will make his official debut at Spectrum Center during the Hornets’ Home Opener against the Miami Heat on Saturday, October 26 at 7 pm.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Shawn Parker to our Hornets family,” said Hornets Chief Marketing Officer Seth Bennett. “Shawn embodies everything we were searching for in a successor to the beloved Big Pat. His experience, unique style and personality, and passion for the game of basketball made him the perfect fit for our organization, our fans and Buzz City. Shawn will play an integral part of our fans’ experience at Spectrum Center by providing great memories, bringing constant energy and helping to create a home court advantage for our team.”
Originally from Lanham, Maryland, Parker earned a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Maryland. He started his career in sports broadcasting in 2014, beginning at George Washington University and later taking on an additional role with the Gameday Broadcast Network – calling the play-by-play for high school sporting events in the Washington, D.C. metro area.
“I couldn’t be more ecstatic about accepting this role,” said Parker. “I’ve admired the dedication of the Charlotte fan base from afar for so long and this is an absolute dream come true. I’m proud to carry the torch forward, bring the energy, and honor the legacy that Buzz City was built on.”
Parker serves as the successor to longtime public address announcer Pat Doughty, affectionately known as “Big Pat,” who tragically passed in July 2024. Big Pat brought enthusiasm and energy for nearly two decades, enriching games for countless fans over the years. As Parker takes over, additional information on how the organization plans to honor Big Pat’s legacy will be shared prior to the team’s Home Opener.