Friday, December 24, 2004
throwbacks: more than jerseys
If "throwback" graphics aren't enough to inspire you, tune in to see Rollie Massimino as an ESPN guest analyst for the West Virginia at Villanova Classic.If you miss the days when players' shorts really were short and television screens weren't filled with scoreboards and running scores, ESPN Classic is turning back the clock for you.
On Jan. 5, the network will broadcast the first of nine live college basketball games, each featuring "throwback" graphics and production values to make the telecasts appear as they would have years ago. Jim Simpson, an original ESPN personality, will do the play-by-play with various guest commentators including retired coaches.
The first game -- West Virginia at Villanova -- will have a late '70s feel to turn the clock back to when ESPN was launched. Other eras may be featured in the other telecasts and there could be games with teams in retro uniforms and fans in period-specific dress. The last of the nine telecasts will be Rutgers at Notre Dame on March 2.
