Longtime Hornets PA announcer ‘Big Pat’ dies

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (CHARLOTTE SPORTS LIVE) — “Big Pat,” a longtime and vital member of the Charlotte Hornets franchise, has died, the team confirmed Wednesday.

Patrick Doughty was the public address announcer for nearly 20 years since the team’s days as the Bobcats. His booming voice ringing throughout the Spectrum Center was unmistakable during player intros and throughout the games.

“BOOOOOM,” would echo into the rafters after a Hornets rim-rattling dunk, and his playful “No, no, no. Traveling!” added a unique touch to the fan experience.

The Hornets provided the following statement:

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Pat Doughty, our beloved PA announcer for nearly 20 seasons. Big Pat’s vibrant voice was the backbone of our game experience and energized Spectrum Center every night. He was dedicated to our team and our fans, even as he fought health issues in recent years. He will be greatly missed by everyone associated with the Hornets organization. Our thoughts are with Pat’s family and his many friends.

Charlotte Hornets

The exact cause of death is unknown; however, Big Pat lived with extreme neuropathy which had kept him in a wheelchair.

The team website says the Maryland native has worked in R&B and sports talk radio in the Charlotte area and was inducted into the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hall of Fame in 2020.

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