Play by Play: Verne Lundquist's Sports Moments Memoir | William Morrow

William Morrow presents Play by Play, a memoir by Verne Lundquist that invites readers into the booth and beyond, tracing five decades of iconic moments and the human moments behind the headlines. From the early days behind the mic to the most recognizable calls in college football, golf at the Masters, and Olympic moments, the book balances vivid storytelling with quiet reflection, honoring the voices that shaped a generation of sports fans.

Each chapter blends memory with craft, revealing how a live call becomes a shared memory for millions. The memoir offers a front-row seat to the chase for perfect timing, the tension of a buzzer-beater, and the warmth of a seasoned broadcaster who knows when to lean into humor and when to let the crowd carry the moment. Readers will hear familiar catchphrases and feel the rhythm of a well-timed broadcast, as if they were in the press box or courtside.

• Rare behind the scenes anecdotes from landmark events, including the Masters and memorable SEC games.
• Personal moments and friendships with broadcasting icons like Terry Bradshaw and John Madden, and reflections on Pat Summerall.
• Career milestones across two coasts and three decades of high-profile productions, from Dallas radio days to national telecasts.
• A curated set of fifty personal photos that bring the stories to life and time-stamp the moments.
• Insights into the craft of live sports storytelling, pacing, and voice that helped millions feel part of the action.

• The roar of a packed stadium and the hush before a pivotal play, captured through vivid recollections.
• The warmth of humor, humility, and respect for players, coaches, and fans alike.
• A sense of history as you travel through five decades of American sports with a trusted voice at the mic.
• Inspiration for appreciating the art of broadcasting and the human moments behind the highlights.

This memoir is designed for sports fans, memoir lovers, and readers curious about the people, games, and moments that defined modern sports broadcasting. Published by William Morrow, it offers a respectful, engaging look at a life shaped by games, cameras, and a shared love of competition. The book also includes fifty photos that deepen the sense of time and place, making the moments feel immediate and real.