Portland Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon's cost‑cutting sparks broadcast staff exodus

Since acquiring the Portland Trail Blazers for about US$4.25 billion in early 2026, owner Tom Dundon has launched a sweeping cost‑cutting program. More than 70 employees were laid off, and the franchise dismissed most of its broadcast crew. Long‑time play‑by‑play announcer Kevin Calabro left after the team offered a “subprime” contract, a pointed reference to Dundon’s background in high‑interest auto lending. Other departures include TV analyst Michael Holton, statistician Tom Haberstroh, presenter Neil Everett, Jamie Hudson and radio staff Travis Demers. The Trail Blazers also withdrew from the Moda Center renovation talks, arguing that the US$600 million arena upgrade should not rely on public funding. Dundon’s austere approach mirrors his tenure with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, where similar cuts preceded on‑ice success and a recent Stanley Cup win.