The Big O had a blast.
Glenn Ordway stepped away from his daily radio duties Thursday after nearly 50 years on-air, completing one of the most legendary runs in Boston broadcasting history. He started as a commentator for the Bruins and Celtics before building WEEI into an all-sports behemoth. "The Big Show" was rated No. 1 among men 25-54 for 11 years straight.
For the last six years, Glenn has been the host of OMF, sitting alongside Lou Merloni and Christian Fauria. They're the latest additions to Ordway's talent tree, which stretches from Michael Felger to Gerry Callahan. Nobody has elevated more careers in Boston sports media than Glenn.
On Thursday, many of those voices, including Callahan, called in to wish Glenn well — as did some of the biggest names in Boston sports. I mean, Bill Belichick called Glenn a "legend." All of those years of Belichick defending were well worth it.
"You're a true sports radio legend and professional," Belichick said. "I know you had everybody's respect, including mine. I was very fortunate to have thew amount of opportunity to work with you that I did. You're one of the real trailblazers in the industry."
Glenn enjoys a deep relationship with the Patriots organization, setting up outside of Gillette Stadium every Sunday. Robert Kraft also offered his kind words.
"Glenn: You're a true giant in your field," he said. "I think back, you started with Johnny Most, and you became the host with the most. You turned this from a city of miserable to a city of champions. You are a champion, and we're proud to have known and associated with you."
Celtics legends Bill Walton and Danny Ainge called in, too, with the former informing everybody he was high … above the Oregon River.
Talk about leaving on a high note.
"I had a blast," Ordway said. "Some of it might have been at your expense, but all of us had a blast."
