Wichita State honors legendary announcer Mike Kennedy at anniversary celebration

Over 8,000 fans packed the Roundhouse to celebrate three MVC Championship teams and Kennedy's 46-year career

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:51pm

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A season-high crowd of 8,094 fans filled the Roundhouse in Wichita, Kansas to celebrate the anniversaries of three Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) championship basketball teams and to honor the legendary career of Mike Kennedy, the longtime "Voice of the Shockers" who is retiring at the end of this academic season after 46 years of service.

Why it matters

Mike Kennedy has been the radio play-by-play announcer for Wichita State basketball for nearly half a century, becoming a beloved and iconic figure in the community. The anniversary celebration of multiple championship teams underscores the rich history and tradition of Wichita State athletics that Kennedy has been a part of for decades.

The details

The anniversary celebration featured recognition of three past MVC championship teams from Wichita State. Kennedy, who is retiring after this season, has been the radio voice for the Shockers since 1980 and has called countless big games and moments in the program's history.

  • The anniversary celebration took place on February 23, 2026.

The players

Mike Kennedy

The longtime "Voice of the Shockers" who is retiring after 46 years as the radio play-by-play announcer for Wichita State basketball.

Paul Mills

The current head coach of the Wichita State men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Kennedy has been the heart and soul of Wichita State basketball for generations. His voice is synonymous with our program, and we're grateful for his decades of dedication and passion.”

— Paul Mills, Wichita State Head Coach

What’s next

Kennedy will be honored with a special retirement ceremony at the Shockers' final home game of the season on March 5, 2026.

The takeaway

Mike Kennedy's retirement marks the end of an era for Wichita State basketball, as the legendary announcer has been the constant voice guiding fans through the program's highs and lows for nearly half a century.