Today, Around The Horn ended its run on ESPN after 23 years. And I watched with a heart full of gratitude, and eyes that were welled over with the realization this was the last time enjoying a show that has been with me for so long.

I’ve been watching ESPN for almost my entire life. And while I’ve got many favorites, I’ve spent the most time with Uncle Mike and Uncle Kornheiser. I don’t know what I’ll do when they leave us for the last time.

But right behind them and for the while they were together, Cousin Tony isn’t too far behind.

The ATH and PTI, one-two punch may have been the best we’ve seen in sports debate and discussion. Not only was it informative and thought provoking but it was so much fun. I couldn’t wait to get home from work and watch these guys. When the Red Stripe commercials were running, it was an even better watch.

And their influence spread over into my own history of debating on television. As many of you know, I wandered into political debate, but what I like to think made me a last for ten years was the same kind of excitement, curiosity, and fun that we’ve seen on ATH.

I want to thank Tony Reali, all of the producers and showrunners that made this presentation possible, and ESPN for allowing this show to be a part of my life for over two decades.

It increased my love for sports and influenced me to pursue and embrace a caliber of discussion where we not only learn from each other but have a remarkable amount of fun in doing so.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.