Toby Rowland's voice will be heard by even more now.
Rowland, the Voice of the Oklahoma Sooners, was named Sports Director of News 9, the local CBS affilate station in Oklahoma City. Rowland will start his new role in July to replace longtime sports broadcaster Dean Blevins, who announced his retirement on Monday.
Tonight was a special night. So many friends and colleagues have helped along the way. I was lucky to be born when I was, where it was, and from the est parents and family. It all starts at home. It’s been a great ride .. that’s still going. https://t.co/YsecGzP2jK
— Dean Blevins (@DeanBlevins) February 25, 2025
No worry for Sooner Nation, though, as Rowland's voice will still be present during OU football, men's basketball and baseball games. He assured his 14-year role as the Voice of the Sooners will continue along with his new position.
To follow in the footsteps of Bill Teegins and Dean Blevins gives me chills! I love @NEWS9 and will work tirelessly to attempt to be deserving of this honor.
— Toby Rowland (@TRowOU) February 25, 2025
Secondly… I’m not leaving OU!
Being the Voice of the Sooners is the greatest thrill of my professional life!
cont… https://t.co/BUgx7hmJqF
Rowland has already served a sports producer, anchor and reporter for KWTV News 9 before. He also hosts the "T-Row in the Morning Show" on KREF in Norman. However, Rowland announced Tuesday morning on his show that after over 21 years his show will conclude in June.
The full announcement this morning from Toby and TJ.@TRowOU @tjperry1400 pic.twitter.com/Dcgodvu3wj
— The REF (@KREFsports) February 25, 2025
Between being the Voice of the Sooners, hosting a 20-year-plus radio show and being a longtime TV figure in sports, Rowland has been a staple and made an impact throughout the Oklahoma sports scene, even beyond Norman and OU athletics.
Sooner Nation and beyond celebrated Rowland's new promotion, especially since he'll still be calling OU games for the foreseeable future.
Congrats @TRowOU !!! Excited for you
— Shane Beamer (@CoachSBeamer) February 25, 2025
And congrats to you @DeanBlevins on a legendary career in OKC
Really enjoyed watching/listening to both of you during my time in Oklahoma https://t.co/KvVwxBuETI
Awesome News! Congrats to one of the absolute best people and broadcasters I’ve worked with!! @TRowOU https://t.co/4AoR2irlVo
— DustyDvoracek (@DustyDvoracek) February 25, 2025
Niiiice!
— Gabe Ikard (@GabeIkard) February 25, 2025
Congrats @TRowOU! pic.twitter.com/TiAENhGDXK
Happy for @TRowOU. Guy started out just trying to get a foot in the door doing The Small College Report on WWLS back in the early 90s and will end up as a Hall of Famer in OK media history. Humble as they come as well. https://t.co/FpZB2pxrhL
— Carey Murdock (@CareyAMurdock) February 25, 2025
Congrats to @TRowOU! Tight schedule but you’re gonna kill it! 👊🏼 https://t.co/PelguvmFOu
— John E. Hoover 🌮 (@johnehoover) February 25, 2025
In my short time working with Toby I was blown away by his on-air talent and storytelling, but most of all his jovial spirit. In fact, Toby reminds me a lot of Bob Barry, Jr. — add that name to the list. Congrats to Toby, @DeanBlevins & @NEWS9. 👏🏼 https://t.co/h3xJZGgQpS
— Carson Cunningham (@Carson_OKC) February 25, 2025
He’s the best in the business. But…he’s a better person. So happy for u my friend. Praying u keep announcing OU baseball. https://t.co/1WJbzhxO7c
— Reggie Willits (@Reggie_Willits) February 25, 2025