A Journey from the Midwest to the Broadcast Booth
Brandon Gaudin’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a unique blend of real-world sports broadcasting and virtual game commentary. Born in Evansville, Indiana, Gaudin grew up in a region known for its love of basketball and college football. Yet, his heart was drawn to baseball, specifically the Atlanta Braves. Unlike many fans who rooted for local teams, Gaudin found his connection to the Braves through cable television, particularly on Ted Turner’s TBS network, which brought the team into homes across the country.
This early exposure sparked a lifelong fascination with the sport and its storytelling. As a child, Gaudin would reenact games in his living room, mimicking the voices of legendary announcers like Skip Caray. This childhood dream eventually led him to Butler University in Indianapolis, where he studied broadcasting and began calling games for the school’s sports teams. His journey continued as he worked his way through the minor leagues, eventually landing a role as the voice of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in 2013.
From College Broadcasting to National Recognition
Gaudin’s work at Georgia Tech opened doors to national opportunities. In 2016, he joined Fox Sports and the Big Ten Network, calling NFL, MLB, and college football games. His talent and dedication quickly made him a recognizable voice in the sports broadcasting world. One of his most memorable moments came in 2018 when he called Michigan’s last-second win over Houston in the NCAA tournament, fulfilling a childhood dream of announcing a buzzer-beater.
Despite his growing success, Gaudin always felt a pull toward the Braves. The opportunity to become their television announcer finally came in 2023, when the position opened up. For Gaudin, it was more than just a job—it was a fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration. “It felt right,” he said. “I was 38, and it felt like the right fit for my career.”
The Dream Realized
Gaudin’s debut in the Truist Park television booth during the 2023 home opener was a moment he will never forget. As the Braves secured a walk-off win, he delivered one of his most cherished calls: “The Braves win! They walk it off in the home opener!” The roar of the crowd and the celebration on the field were the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
For Gaudin, this moment was deeply personal. It was the realization of a fantasy he had played out in his living room as a child. “I remember sitting there and thinking, ‘How cool is this?’” he recalled. “It’s something that I dreamed about, that I mimicked in my living room and foyer as a kid at seven, eight, nine years old, and then at 39 years old getting to live that out in real life was incredibly neat.”
The Voice Behind the Video Game
While Gaudin’s career in sports broadcasting has been impressive, his role as the voice of EA Sports’ Madden NFL video game franchise has added another layer to his legacy. Since 2016, he has provided commentary for the popular game, which consistently generates over half a billion dollars annually. His involvement with the game began unexpectedly in 2015 when he received a LinkedIn message from EA Sports.
At first, Gaudin thought it might be a prank. “I didn’t think I would be on the radar of EA Sports,” he admitted. But after signing a non-disclosure agreement and auditioning for the role, he was offered the chance to replace Jim Nantz as the voice of the game. “You only get so many moments in your life where you will never forget everything about that moment,” he said.
A Unique Career Path
Gaudin’s career is a testament to his versatility and passion. From calling games in the minor leagues to becoming a national broadcast voice, and from the radio booth to the virtual world of video games, he has carved out a unique path. His ability to connect with audiences, whether in person or through a screen, has made him a beloved figure in both the sports and gaming communities.
Today, Gaudin continues to balance his roles as the voice of the Braves and the narrator of Madden NFL. His journey from a small town in Indiana to the center stage of professional sports and entertainment is an inspiring story of dedication and dreams coming true.
The Impact of a Voice
Gaudin’s voice has become synonymous with major sports events, both in the real world and in the digital realm. Fans recognize his tone and energy, whether they are watching a game on TV or playing a video game. His work has not only brought him recognition but also a sense of pride in knowing that his voice can bring joy and excitement to millions.
In interviews, Gaudin often reflects on how far he has come. “Here we are, gosh, eight or nine years later, and it’s been a wonderful ride,” he says. His journey serves as a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a little bit of luck, even the most ambitious dreams can become reality.
The Future of a Broadcast Legend
As Gaudin continues to grow in his career, he remains focused on the present. He knows that the road ahead will be filled with challenges, but he is ready to embrace them. Whether it’s calling a game in Truist Park or providing commentary for a new version of Madden NFL, he is committed to delivering the best possible experience for his audience.
His story is a powerful example of what can be achieved through hard work and a deep love for one’s craft. For fans of the Braves and gamers alike, Gaudin’s voice is more than just a sound—it’s a symbol of dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence.
