After 46 years calling Mississippi State baseball games, Jim Ellis decided to hang up the microphone on Wednesday, announcing his retirement following nearly half a century as the voice of the Bulldogs.
“It’s been a total pleasure being part of Mississippi State baseball and serving this incredible university that I love for the past 46 years,” Ellis said in a news release. “I have nothing but fond memories of all the players, coaches and fans of Mississippi State. They’re the best in the country. They’ve made it an absolute joy to tell the extraordinary stories of Mississippi State to the Bulldog family. They’re what makes this place so special.”
Ellis grew up in West Point and graduated from MSU in 1969, taking over as the voice of the baseball program starting with the 1979 season. He has called 33 NCAA regionals, five Southeastern Conference regular season and seven SEC Tournament titles, 11 trips to the Men’s College World Series and the 2021 national championship.
He was named the Mississippi Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sports Media Association four times, in 1998, 2002, 2013 and 2014.
“Jim Ellis is synonymous with Mississippi State baseball,” head coach Chris Lemonis said. “He has connected with generations of Bulldog fans, sharing the incredible stories and most memorable moments in Diamond Dawg history. He’s made a positive impact on our program for more than 40 years, and it has been an absolute honor to work with him. We appreciate his professionalism, dedication and love for the maroon and white.”
Ellis also took over play-by-play duties for MSU football and men’s basketball in 2011, following the retirement of Jack Cristil. He returned to focusing exclusively on baseball in 2017. Upon the opening of the renovated Dudy Noble Field in 2019, the radio suite was dedicated as the Jim Ellis Broadcast Suite, and the home booth was renamed the Jim Ellis Broadcast Booth. Ellis was inducted into the Ron Polk Ring of Honor in 2024.
His successor will be named in the near future, presumably before the start of the 2025 season on Feb. 14.
“Jim Ellis is a Mississippi State legend and an icon in sports broadcasting,” athletic director Zac Selmon said. “No one has been more instrumental in telling the incredible stories of Mississippi State baseball for the last 46 seasons than Jim. He is a special part of the Mississippi State family who has devoted decades of service and love for the Bulldogs.”
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