Have you ever been curious about the charismatic commentator for UCSB basketball games? If so, we would like to introduce you to Alex Kim, a second year from La Cañada. He is currently a volunteer at KCSB 91.9 FM as a writer and broadcaster. His love for the game has lead him to venture out to a different, but still exhilarating, side of basketball.
What is your main priority as a writer and broadcaster for KCSB?
We have a radio show three times a week, two of them are just quick 10-minute sports reviews of UCSB sports for the week and one 30-minute show where we discuss sports topics that don’t get as much attention. We do this because the whole concept of the radio station is to be alternative and give more attention to the stories that don’t get as much publicity.
Do you broadcast for sports games other than basketball? If so, what are the sports that you have broadcasted for?
Yes, we cover all major sports: men’s and women’s volleyball, soccer, basketball, baseball and softball. No one person is assigned to one specific sport so I’ve been able to broadcast for every different sport.
How do you prepare for a typical day on the job? Whether it’s for a 10-minute radio show, or broadcasting a UCSB game? Same? Different?
They are both similar and different in many ways. For the 10-minute shows, I write the stories I’ve been assigned and proofread and practice the stories before going on air. For the discussion shows, I research whatever it is we are discussing for the show and make sure to have enough knowledge to have a conversation about it. For the games, I make sure to research the opposing team ahead of time, as there is a short 15-minute preview show prior to each sporting event. This helps to learn about the players on the other team so that when the game starts, you are able to say their names quickly since we are required to speak swiftly.
How did you come upon this opportunity?
I saw flyers around school that advertised KCSB and also received emails from the school that had the same message so I went to a meeting, and after going through some paperwork and taking a test I was good to go!
What does it take to become part of the KCSB team?
This may sound very corny, but responsibility, diligence, and a passion to discuss and cover sports.
What is your favorite part of being a broadcaster and writer?
Definitely covering the basketball games because I grew up loving and playing the sport, so naturally that is my favorite thing to do.
What is one surprising fact that you would like to share?
Despite this being my primary extra curricular activity, I’m actually majoring in biochemistry. I think this is surprising because I feel that when you get to college your major defines who you are.
What is next for the UCSB Basketball team?
They will be in Anaheim starting this Thursday for the Big West Conference Tournament, which is the conference they are in comprising of 8 other teams. In order to move into the NCAA Tournament, they need to win in order to make it to the top 64. Since UCSB is considered a mid major, the only way for them to an automatic bid is to win their smaller conference tournament. I feel that they have a good shot as they are currently the number two seeded team for their conference tournament!