The Voice of the Miami HEAT: Michael Baiamonte to Retire After 35 Legendary Seasons

Remix Sports Media
5 days ago
5 min read

For more than three decades, Miami HEAT fans have been greeted by one of the most iconic and electrifying voices in the NBA. From the unforgettable “STANNNNDDD UP AND MAKE SOME NOOOOIIISSSEEEE” to the rhythmic “DOS MINUTOSSSSS” echoing through the Kaseya Center, Michael Baiamonte has been more than an announcer—he’s been the heartbeat of HEAT Nation.

Now, after 35 seasons of being the voice behind the Miami HEAT, Baiamonte has officially announced that the 2025–26 NBA season will be his last. His retirement marks the end of an era, closing the chapter on one of the longest and most celebrated careers in professional sports announcing.

A Voice That Defined Miami Sports

Baiamonte joined the Miami HEAT organization during its earliest years, stepping in as a backup announcer on February 21, 1990, during the team’s second season at the old Miami Arena. Just a year later, in 1991–92, he became the full-time in-arena voice—and from that point forward, his booming baritone became inseparable from Miami basketball.

Over the years, Baiamonte has announced more than 1,500 professional basketball games, including six NBA Finals. His voice has been the soundtrack to some of the franchise’s greatest moments—moments that live forever in the memories of HEAT fans.

Whether it was Ray Allen’s legendary 3-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, or the electric energy of the 2006 championship celebration, Baiamonte’s delivery brought every play, every victory, and every emotion to life.

Michael McCullough, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of The HEAT Group, summed it up perfectly:

“In addition to the incredible level of energy and enthusiasm he has brought to each Miami HEAT game, for more than three decades Michael B’s professionalism and affable personality have endeared him to all of us in the front office and to HEAT fans everywhere. His voice will forever be a part of our franchise history.”

Giannias Antetokoummpo - Remix Sports Media

From the Arena to Miami’s Cultural Fabric

To understand Baiamonte’s impact, you have to look beyond the microphone. His unique blend of charisma, creativity, and authenticity turned his signature calls into Miami cultural touchpoints. When HEAT fans hear “DOS MINUTOSSSSS,” it’s more than a time cue—it’s a rallying cry.

When he stretches “MAKE SOME NOOOIIISEEEE,” it’s more than a prompt—it’s tradition.

These moments have transcended sports, becoming part of the city’s collective identity. Miami is a place where energy, rhythm, and flair define the experience—and Baiamonte embodied all three. His voice didn’t just echo in the arena; it echoed in living rooms, on social media, and across the streets of South Florida.

Beyond Basketball: A Voice for All Occasions

Baiamonte’s impact extended far beyond the hardwood. A highly sought-after emcee, he has hosted a wide range of events—from corporate conferences and award ceremonies to political gatherings and entertainment showcases. His warm personality and commanding presence made him a go-to voice across multiple industries.

His versatility has also been recognized nationally. In 2019, he was chosen to call the NBA All-Star Weekend’s activities in Charlotte, North Carolina—a fitting acknowledgment of his stature within the league. He even lent his voice to the popular NBA 2K video game series, allowing fans across the world to experience a small taste of Miami HEAT energy.

Unforgettable Moments in a Storied Career

Throughout his 35 seasons, Baiamonte has been there for some of the most iconic events in franchise history. A few of his most memorable moments include:

Hosting the 2006 NBA Finals Game 6 Road Rally at Kaseya Center as the HEAT captured their first-ever NBA Championship.
Calling Ray Allen’s clutch three-pointer in 2013 that forced overtime in Game 6 of the NBA Finals—a shot often described as one of the most important in league history.
Welcoming Shaquille O’Neal to Miami, announcing his arrival as the Hall of Famer rolled up in an 18-wheeler truck spraying the crowd with a squirt gun.
Emceeing the Big 3 Welcome Event in 2010, introducing LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade as Miami ushered in a new era of basketball dominance.
Hosting three NBA Championship Celebrations following Miami’s title victories in 2006, 2012, and 2013.

These moments not only highlight Baiamonte’s connection to the team but also showcase how integral he’s been to the storytelling of HEAT basketball.

Miami Heat Warming Up - Remix Sports Media

Saying Goodbye to an Era

In his retirement announcement, Baiamonte shared heartfelt words that resonated deeply with HEAT fans everywhere:

“After giving this much thought and consideration, I have decided that this season, my 35th with the Miami HEAT organization, will be my last. I want to thank the Miami HEAT for their understanding and support of my decision as I move to the next chapter of my life with my wife Natalie and our daughters. I also want to say THANK YOU to all of HEAT Nation. For all of the love you have shown me, I am forever grateful. During my final season, let’s continue to make some more noise, share some more laughs, and, as always, give all our collective support to our Miami HEAT. LET’S GO HEAT!”

It’s a message filled with gratitude, humility, and the same energy that has defined his career. Baiamonte’s love for the game—and for the fans—has always been at the heart of what made him special.

“Mike Drop”: A Season-Long Celebration

To honor his remarkable 35-year run, the Miami HEAT will dedicate the 2025–26 season to celebrating Baiamonte through a special campaign titled “Mike Drop: 35 Seasons of Michael Baiamonte.”

Fans can expect tributes, features, and special moments throughout the year—an opportunity to relive memories, celebrate milestones, and give the Voice of the HEAT a well-deserved farewell.

Meanwhile, the organization will begin a nationwide search for his successor—an unenviable task, considering the magnitude of Baiamonte’s shoes to fill. Whoever steps behind that microphone next will inherit not just a job but a legacy.

The Lasting Legacy of Michael Baiamonte

When fans look back on the Miami HEAT’s storied history—the championships, the legendary players, the unforgettable moments—Michael Baiamonte’s voice will always be part of that soundtrack.

He was there when the franchise earned its first ring. He was there when LeBron, Bosh, and Wade transformed Miami into the epicenter of basketball excellence. And he’ll be there one last time, leading HEAT Nation in celebration, passion, and unity.

Baiamonte’s retirement isn’t just about losing a voice—it’s about closing a chapter that helped define what it means to be a HEAT fan. His energy, enthusiasm, and signature phrases will echo long after his final “LET’S GO HEAT!”

As Miami embarks on another exciting NBA season, fans across South Florida will savor every moment with Michael B behind the mic—because after 35 seasons, the legend deserves a standing ovation.