Mike Breen Explains No ‘Bang’ Call on NBA Finals Game-Winner

Mike Breen, the iconic NBA Finals announcer known for his signature “BANG!” call, chose not to use it after Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, sparking widespread viewer disappointment and criticism. Breen explained that he reserves the “BANG!” call almost exclusively for three-point shots, with only one prior exception—a two-pointer by Kobe Bryant—and since Haliburton’s shot was a two-pointer, he opted for a more generic call instead. Despite acknowledging that given the shot’s significance, saying “BANG!” would have pleased fans, Breen emphasized that he does not premeditate his calls and holds the phrase as a special honor for specific moments. The lack of the call was further highlighted by ESPN’s broadcast cutting to Shaquille O’Neal immediately after the shot, intensifying the absence of Breen’s trademark excitement. Breen’s decision reflects his deep respect for the call’s tradition, yet it has sparked debate about when and how such iconic calls should be used in historic playoff moments. The game itself was a thrilling comeback by the Indiana Pacers, with Haliburton cementing his reputation as a clutch performer in the postseason.