Paul Braun
Paul Braun has been a defining voice in Wisconsin sports broadcasting for more than five decades. Best known as the legendary play-by-play announcer for University of Wisconsin hockey, Paul’s signature call—“Shot and a goal!”—has echoed through generations of Badger fans. Beginning his tenure in 1973, he covered five NCAA championships and worked across radio and television, including WIBA, WTSO, and WMTV-TV in Madison. He also played a key role in establishing statewide tape-delay broadcasts of Badger hockey, a tradition that lasted more than 20 years.
Beyond the booth, Braun has mentored countless broadcasters, earning a reputation for professionalism, warmth, and dedication to the industry. He also owned and operated radio stations in Platteville, contributing to local broadcasting in Wisconsin. After stepping away to care for his wife, Braun returned as the lead voice for Wisconsin women’s hockey on iHeartRadio, proving his passion for the game and his enduring talent.
Braun’s wife, Karen, died of Alzheimer’s in 2015, which has since inspired Braun to become a tireless advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness. He has co-hosted the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s and supports the UW-Madison Initiative to End Alzheimer’s.
Paul Braun’s career shows his commitment to excellence, integrity, and service in broadcasting.
Congratulations, Paul. Well-deserved, my friend. We both arrived in Madison in 1973. You made me a Badger Hockey fan. As a youngster in Newark, Ohio, I fell asleep listening to hockey on KMOX. In Madison, I stayed awake listening to you and “seeing” the whole rink through your eyes. You have turned the adversity Karen and you went through into a worthy cause. You are truly a Hall-of-Famer! Godspeed!