Indiana Broadcast History Archive

Mark Boyle is a sports broadcaster and play-by-play analyst for the Indiana Pacers. He was influenced to begin broadcasting by his father, a broadcaster for the Minnesota Twins, but Boyle built his career independently. After gaining early experience in high school sports reporting, he worked at KSTP Minneapolis, WFAN New York, and KMOX St. Louis before landing the Pacers job. Over his decades-long career, he has become a defining voice in Indiana sports media. 

Mark Boyle was inducted in the Indiana Broadcast Hall of Fame in 2023. 

Early Life

Boyle grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as one of three children in the family. He speaks highly of the impact his parents had on his career and personal development. He credits them for instilling a "never quit" attitude in him, though he only fully appreciated their influence when he got older. 

His father inspired his early interest in sports media. Joe Boyle was the legendary broadcaster for the Minnesota Twins baseball team. One of the key lessons his father gave was the importance of pursuing a career that brings personal fulfillment over fame or fortune. 

Early Career Aspirations

Boyle initially dreamed of being a professional baseball player, then considered coaching, law, and eventually broadcasting. His passion for the field developed while accompanying his father to work. Despite his father’s influence, Boyle emphasizes that he achieved his success without any special assistance or connections. 

His first experience in broadcasting came in high school, where he reported on local sports. 

KSTP Minneapolis

Boyle’s career began at KSTP Minneapolis, where he had the opportunity to create a feature story that aired between hockey periods for the North Stars. Though initially unexcited about the assignment, he gave it his all. The general manager at KSTP took notice and offered him a job at the station. 

At 27, Boyle took on early-morning and late-night shifts while also covering college football and basketball. Reflecting on that time, he recalls working long hours with little sleep but still feeling motivated. This dedication ultimately led to an offer from WFAN in New York.  

Boyle became one of WFAN’s first on-air voices but soon pursued his dream job at KMOX, a St. Louis station he had admired since childhood. However, he quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. The structured, by-the-book environment clashed with his style, leading him to seek new opportunities. 

Indiana Pacers

When he inquired about a position with the Dallas Mavericks, he learned they had just hired the Pacers’ broadcaster. Seizing the opportunity, he reached out to the Pacers. They hired him, setting the stage for his successful career. 

One of the youngest play-by-play announcers in the league at the time, Boyle secured a two-year contract to establish stability and refine his approach. Over the years, he became synonymous with Pacers basketball, narrating both the franchise’s highs and lows. 

Boyle has been named Indiana Sportscaster of the Year five times and was inducted into the Indiana Sportswriter and Sportscaster Hall of Fame in 2023.  

Pacer in the NBA Finals

In 2000, Boyle provided play-by-play coverage of the Pacers’ NBA Finals matchup against the Lakers. While acknowledging the significance of the event for the franchise, he found the experience challenging due to heightened security and restricted access to players. 

Among his most iconic calls is the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals moment: “Ding, dong, the witch is dead!” following the Pacers' victory over the Knicks. 

Adapting to Industry Changes

Boyle has witnessed the evolution of broadcasting, particularly the rise of digital media. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, noting how his pre-game preparation and workflow have changed significantly. 

He also believes that being successful in broadcasting comes from leveraging individual strengths such as humor, conviction, or storytelling. There isn’t a correct way to broadcast but individuality is what sets professionals apart. 

Career Life Lessons

Boyle stresses the value of learning from a diverse range of individuals. He believes in remaining open to new ideas, even from younger broadcasters, as they may introduce efficient techniques he has yet to consider. 

His adaptability and self-critical approach have been essential to his longevity and continued success in the industry. 

Passions Beyond Broadcasting

Despite his demanding career, Boyle prioritizes hobbies and giving back. His varied interests include working as a coffee shop barista, performing with the symphony, and charitable work. 

One of his most notable philanthropic efforts was a 500-mile walk to raise $18,000 for the Indiana Children’s Wish Fund. His philosophy is simple, love your work but never lose yourself in it. 

Into the Future

Boyle plans to continue broadcasting while maintaining his outside interests. His career has made a lasting impact in sports media, and he remains committed to evolving with the industry while mentoring the next generation of broadcasters. 

Haley Hunter interviewed Mark Boyle for the IBHA Oral History Collection in 2024.  

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Written by Haley Hunter, edited by Katherine Maners

April 2025

Bibliogrpahy: 

“Mark Boyle.” The Official Site of the NBA for the Latest NBA Scores, Stats & News., www.nba.com/pacers/broadcast-team/mark-boyle 

Compton, Ray. “Mark Boyle, The Voice of the Pacers.” Carmel Monthly Magazine - Carmel, Indiana, 26 Feb. 2021, carmelmonthlymagazine.com/mark-boyle-the-voice-of-the-pacers 

Mark Boyle - Play-by-Play Broadcaster - Indiana Pacers, www.linkedin.com/in/mark-boyle-90936741 

“Pacers Play-by-Play Man Heads to the Minor Leagues for a Baseball Adventure.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 21 June 2015, www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jun/21/pacers-play-by-play-man-heads-to-the-minor-leagues 

“Mark Montieth.” MARK MONTIETH, markmontieth.com/one-on-one/mark-boyle/ 

“Mark Boyle Calls 2,500th Pacers Game.” YouTube, YouTube, 6 Jan. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abm3XZtTw-U