Joe Smith, Indiana football and basketball broadcaster, dies at 78
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 12:58 AM
Last updated Jul 14, 2026
Joe Smith, a prominent figure in Indiana University sports broadcasting, passed away on July 14, 2026, at the age of 78. He served on the IU radio broadcasts for football and men’s basketball for 40 years, beginning in 1983. Smith was a member of the Indiana Sportswriters/Sportscasters Hall of Fame and received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Indiana Sportscaster of the Year award in 1998. His contributions to local high school sports also made him a community staple. Smith's legacy will continue to resonate, as he is remembered for his professionalism and dedication to bringing sporting events to life over the airwaves.
- •Joe Smith died on July 14, 2026.
- •He broadcasted IU football and basketball for 40 years.
- •Smith was inducted into the Indiana Sportswriters/Sportscasters Hall of Fame.
- •He was awarded Indiana Sportscaster of the Year in 1998.
- •Smith remained active in broadcasting until his retirement in 2022.
- 1:18 AMYahoo Sports — Osterman: Joe Smith's death leaves many memories, and a hole that can't be closed
- 12:58 AMYahoo Sports — Joe Smith, who broadcast Indiana football and basketball games for 40 years, dies
"IndyStar IU insider Zach Osterman remembers the impact longtime Indiana radio voice Joe Smith left on him. Smith died Monday at age 78.
"Joe Smith's voice was long recognized by IU fans who listened to football and men's basketball coverage on the radio.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 14, 2026, 1:18 AMOsterman: Joe Smith's death leaves many memories, and a hole that can't be closed
IndyStar IU insider Zach Osterman remembers the impact longtime Indiana radio voice Joe Smith left on him. Smith died Monday at age 78.
- Yahoo SportsJul 14, 2026, 12:58 AMJoe Smith, who broadcast Indiana football and basketball games for 40 years, dies
Joe Smith's voice was long recognized by IU fans who listened to football and men's basketball coverage on the radio.
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