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Dave Baker '82 Joins Broadcasters Hall of Fame
Dave Baker '82 Dave Baker '82 Inducted Into Inducted Into Kentucky Kentucky Broadcasters Broadcasters Hall of Fame Hall of Fame
In September, well-known broadcaster Dave Baker ’82 was inducted into the Kentucky Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. Baker graduated from Georgetown College with his bachelor’s degree in political science. Baker sat down with GC Magazine to tell us about his big breaks and some lessons he learned along the way. “When I got to Georgetown, the guys who had been announcing the basketball games graduated and Coach Reid allowed me to step in,” said Baker. “After that, I got an internship at WKYT that opened up new opportunities.” The internship helped him land a full-time position at television station WKYT, and he found his calling as a broadcaster. He credits his success to being quick on his feet, managing deadlines well, and being available when people need him. More than anything, he encourages those seeking a career in television to be open to new possibilities. “Broadcasting is a very challenging business, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And there are opportunities in front of or behind the camera. So, it doesn’t matter where you start because opportunities will be there.” Baker has spent most of his career with WKYT, celebrating 40 years with the Lexington station this year. In addition, Baker has worked for the Southeastern Conference for more than two decades, covering basketball, baseball, softball, and volleyball. Now on the SEC Network Plus, Baker calls the action for UK soccer and softball. He has also been a part of Turner Sports “Team Casts” for the NCAA Final Four. Baker also got to call a few NAIA national championship games for Georgetown College, which he credits for helping him learn how to talk to people. “I came from a small town in Ohio. I was the first person from my family to go to college, and I was a little afraid being away from home,” said Baker. “I joined Kappa Alpha, got involved with sports announcing, and just put myself out there. We all did life together, and many of the people I met at Georgetown College remain lifelong friends. I am blessed and proud to call Kentucky home.” Baker currently resides in Frankfort with his wife, Donna. They have three daughters and three sons together. To see Baker in action, tune in for sports on WKYT 27 at 6:30 p.m. or listen to the “Countdown to Tip-Off” on the University of Kentucky’s radio network airing 90 minutes before each UK basketball game. To watch the highlight reel from our interview with Dave Baker, scan the QR code above.
Left to right: Dave Baker, Verne Lundquist, Jim Barnhart, Oscar Combs.
