Tonight’s game at MSG had plenty of fireworks, with Jalen Brunson guiding the NY Knicks to a blowout win over the Bucks. Amid that frenzy, there was a calm and heartwarming moment curated by the renowned NBA announcer, Mike Breen, on behalf of ESPN. The 63-year-old announcer has consistently captivated his audience with his fast-paced commentary on iconic plays on the court. But tonight, Breen dedicated a brief moment to his colleague, who lost his sister, with a tribute message on Live TV.

The colleague is none other than Alan Hahn, who has been part of ESPN Radio and MSG Network since the last decade. We can often find him on the sidelines of the Madison Square Garden, interviewing players and coaches. Most importantly, he has developed a great reputation for his work. Unfortunately, Hahn’s sister, Debbie, passed away yesterday.

Alan took to his IG handle after her passing and sent out a heartfelt note, writing, “My world lost one of its brightest lights. My heart is broken, my soul a little less full.” Notably, Debbie was living with Down syndrome, and addressing that, Alan wrote, “Please treat all people with dignity and respect, especially those who may be born different than you.”

Tonight, Alan Hahn couldn’t join the ESPN crew for the Knicks match-up against the Bucks and Mike Breen made his presence felt with his tribute message. Breen said, “Now many of us here never met Debbie Hahn, but when you hear Alan talk about his sister, boy, did we miss out because she was this bright light of joy throughout her life.”

Following that, Breen brought out an anecdote from one of Alan’s stories. So, whenever Debbie met someone new, the first thing she would ask was, “When is your birthday?” and no matter how much time has passed, the next time she met the same person, she would recite it with a wide smile. Of course, this would have sounded well in Breen’s voice. Nevertheless, Hahn responded to his colleague’s wholesome words with a touching response.

ESPN’s Alan Hahn responds to Mike Breen’s wholesome tribute

Alan Hahn truly had the courage to put his emotions into words, even during the tough times. The star announcer dropped a compilation of pictures from Debbie’s life and made a heartwarming IG post. Looking at the joy and love that those pictures radiate does make you tear up a bit.

Moreover, Alan Hahn didn’t just stop there. He went on to repost Mike Breen’s words on X along with a note. Hahn wrote, “Can’t say thank you enough for the love and support my family has received this weekend. It’s been tough, but seeing your many messages helps mend a broken heart.” 

Above all, Mike Breen made it clear at the end of his tribute, asking Hahn to join the crew as soon as possible after spending with his family during these tough times. And we at Essentially Sports express our deepest condolence to Alan Hahn and his family.