Mike Fratello

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Lore & Background

Fratello previously coached the Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association (NBA), served as NBC's lead analyst, as YES Network's color commentator/studio analyst for the Brooklyn Nets, as a commentator/studio analyst for NBA TV and for nationally televised games on TNT and was also the head coach of the Ukraine national basketball team.

In Their Own Story

The dynamic between Mike Fratello and Marv Albert on YES Network broadcasts became a staple for Nets fans during their tenure together. Starting in the 2008–09 season, the duo called games for the franchise as it transitioned from New Jersey to Brooklyn. Fratello's role was crucial; he provided the technical breakdowns that complemented Albert's play-by-play narration. Fans frequently watched him utilize the telestrator to illustrate defensive rotations and offensive spacing, earning him his iconic nickname. The partnership continued through the 2017-18 season, with Fratello occasionally moving to the studio for analyst duties. His departure marked the end of an era for YES Network coverage, as Richard Jefferson took over his spot before Fratello moved on to NBA TV.

Reader's Guide

Fratello is among the winningest head coaches in NBA history, ranking respectively 18th and 19th in all-time regular season wins (667) and games coached (1,215).

Did You Know?

• Fratello was born on February 24, 1947, in Hackensack, New Jersey.
• He graduated from Hackensack High School, where he was captain of the basketball, baseball, and football teams.
• He finished second in Coach of the Year voting for the 1985–86 NBA season (the award went to Mike Schuler of the Portland Trail Blazers).
• Fratello coached the Ukraine national basketball team from 2011 to 2014, but the team did not qualify for the FIBA World Cup during his tenure; their first World Cup appearance came in 2014 under a different coach.