Hank Goldberg, a sports media analyst, died at his home in Henderson, NV, on July 4th, which was also his 82nd birthday.
Henry Edward Goldberg, better known as Hammerin’ Hank, was a renowned American sports radio and television personality based in Miami, Florida. He had a remarkable career spanning 40 years, during which he served as a radio commentator for the Miami Dolphins from 1978 to 1992.
Hank Goldberg rose to national prominence as an NFL reporter and handicapper for ESPN in 1993, a position he held for two decades. He made guest appearances on NFL Countdown and ESPN Radio, and also played a significant role in the network’s thoroughbred racing coverage.
Chris Berman, who has a longstanding career as an ESPN anchor and host of NFL Prime Time, stated:
Hank was an integral part of the soul of ESPN, more than anyone could ever realize. His knowledge enriched our understanding, his wisdom broadened our perspectives, and his companionship improved us as individuals. Rest peacefully, Hammer, and accept our collective gratitude.
Hammerin’ Hank the handicapper
In the 1970s, renowned TV and radio personality Larry King suggested Hammerin’ Hank for a position in sports media and radio. This is how Hank began his career in radio. In addition, Goldberg added to his income by working behind the scenes as a ‘ghost handicapper’ for Jimmy ‘the Greek’ Snyder on the innovative CBS studio program, The NFL Today.
Brent Musburger, who once hosted that popular NFL lead-in show to Sunday’s games, is now the lead on-air talent and managing director for the Vegas Stats & Information Network (VSiN).
Goldberg and Jimmy The Greek had an unbreakable bond, with Goldberg being the main source of insider information for NFL picks. It wasn’t until years later that Hammerin’ Hank’s career as a handicapper and sports betting analyst skyrocketed at ESPN.
Goldberg had an extensive network in sports and media. His broadcasting and reporting career enabled him to establish sources from every NFL team. He managed to become a trusted confidant to numerous players and athletes, including the owner of the Raiders, Al Davis, making him a reliable source within the industry.
Hank thrived behind the microphone, his inherent knack for storytelling enhancing his widely-received coverage of sports and horse racing events. His bold, loud, and deep voice also contributed to his popularity. Hosting the three-hour radio show, “Goldberg at Night” for WIOD, Goldberg’s controversial style influenced two generations of South Florida sports enthusiasts.
Goldberg also had a passion for handicapping and betting on horses. For over two decades, he covered major horse racing events, from the Triple Crown to the Breeders’ Cup, for ABC and ESPN.
What Hank Goldberg meant to the industry
Goldberg had been residing in Henderson since 2018, when he relocated to be closer to and receive care from his younger sister, Liz, amid his kidney disease treatment. Hank also had numerous connections in the Nevada sports betting scene.
Jim Feist, a pioneer in Las Vegas sports betting information, had a 20-year friendship with Hank. Feist revealed to PlayUSA that they collaborated and hosted an NFL podcast twice a week during the 2019 season before Hank’s health began to deteriorate more quickly.
Feist made the following comment:
He was incredibly knowledgeable, and we would engage in hour-long conversations about a wealth of insider news that most were unaware of. Over the years, we had numerous dinners together, during which he proved to be the most entertaining guest. Hank was full of fascinating stories, boasting about his associations and experiences with some of the most prominent figures in the realms of sports and horse racing.
Art Manteris, a recently retired bookmaker from Las Vegas, had lunch with Goldberg at Weiss Deli & Bakery in Henderson. Manteris shared with ESPN about Goldberg’s process of handicapping, stating:
“I can confidently say, he was not a fake. The Hammer consistently backed his words with actions, which quickly gained him significant respect from me. As a veteran Las Vegas bookmaker, Hank’s opinions on the NFL were among the few I held in high esteem.”
ESPN sports betting analyst Chris Fallica divulged more about Goldberg’s impact on the sports betting industry with TheLines, a sports betting news site.
The majority of individuals from this generation, whether they acknowledge it or not, drew inspiration from him. His choices were among the first to appear on major platforms. Notable figures include Jimmy ‘The Greek,’ Pete Axthelm, and Hank Goldberg.
If they hadn’t broken through, I’m unsure if there would be gambling discussions on College GameDay, ‘Bear’s Board,’ and the sports betting show, Daily Wager. Nowadays, everyone is taking advantage of his success and elevating it to a higher level.”
Hank Goldberg passed away following a seven-year fight with kidney disease. Nevertheless, Hammerin’ Hank will be etched in everyone’s memory as a leading figure in sports media. He was not only renowned for his event coverage but also for his fervor and ardor for race and sports betting.
Decades before the US legalized sports betting, he popularized betting and prediction among the masses.
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