After nearly 50 years as a host and play-by-play commentator, Brent Musburger is walking away from the microphone and announcing the end to long-running career. His last assignments will be to call two more men’s college basketball games, with his final telecast set for Jan. 31 at 9p on ESPN with Georgia/Kentucky. Musburger, who is 77, told media that he’s leaving active his role to help his family launch a sports handicapping business here in Las Vegas

“What a wonderful journey I have traveled with CBS and the Disney company,” Musburger said. “A love of sports allows me to live a life of endless pleasure. And make no mistake, I will miss the arenas and stadiums dearly. Most of all, I will miss the folks I have met along the trail.”

ESPN President John Skipper added, “Brent’s presence and delivery have come to symbolize big time sports for multiple generations of fans. When he opens with his signature ‘You are looking live,’ you sit up straight in your chair because you know something important is about to happen. Brent’s catalog of big events is unmatched, and he has skillfully guided us through some of the most dramatic and memorable moments in sports with his authentic and distinctive style. He is one of the best story-tellers to ever grace a sports booth. We and the fans will miss him.”