Veteran sports radio host, Jim Villanucci is making a comeback to the Albuquerque market, joining ESPN 101.7 owned by Team Broadcasting as host of The Locker Room. Villanucci’s new show debuts this week, broadcasting Monday through Friday from 4 – 7pm.
Villanucci previously spent 14 years on air in Albuquerque with the Cumulus owned KKOB 770 AM, before the company opted not to renew his contract in February, 2013. After leaving KKOB, Villanucci spent time at KXL in Portland and KXNT in Las Vegas, also recently launching his own podcast.
“It’s great to be back in New Mexico. I’m humbled by this opportunity,” said Villanucci. “I’m excited to catch up with the audience I gained over my 14 years of radio here. Trust me, the best is yet to come.”
The move to 101.7 fills the void left in their schedule after host, Bob Brown retired last month. Brown retired after a 35-year sportscasting career, 28 of which were spent in Albuquerque including the last 10 hosting The Locker Room on KQTM 101.7.
“The range of this show is as unlimited as Jim’s talent,” said President Joe O’Neill. “Of course, there will be sports, but Jim will jump into current events, pop culture and anything a listener, or Jim, wants to talk about.”
“We are fortunate to have a person with Jim’s talent, intellect and humor who also is familiar with the Albuquerque and New Mexico culture,” O’Neill added. I’m certain that Jim’s thousands of fans share our excitement.”
The Locker Room, hosted by Villanucci 101.7 ESPN’s only local weekday radio show.
Brandon Contes is a freelance writer for BSM. He can be found on Twitter @BrandonContes. To reach him by email click here.