8NewsNow sports anchor/reporter
This week on "Talk About Las Vegas with Ira," sports fans are in for a treat as Ira sits down with 8NewsNow sports anchor and reporter Ron Futrell. In this episode, Ron takes us on a journey back to April 1984, when he first arrived in Las Vegas and was thrown headfirst into a whirlwind sports scene from day one.
From breaking down the Raiders’ current quarterback situation and the impact of salary caps in the NFL to discussing Tom Brady’s influence on the team and the game-changing arrival of Allegiant Stadium, Ron delivers insight like only a seasoned sports journalist can. The conversation also dives into the A’s big move to Vegas in 2028, the possibility of another Super Bowl in 2029, and even the city’s wait for a national college football championship and an NBA team.
But that’s not all—Ron explores how legalized sports betting across the country has reshaped Las Vegas, the emotional power of sports, the legacy of the Speedway, the rise of sports tourism, and what the future holds for the city that’s becoming a true sports capital.
Don’t miss this jam-packed episode full of insider knowledge, bold predictions, and a behind-the-scenes look at the ever-evolving Las Vegas sports landscape!
Ron’s broadcasting journey kicked off in the early ’80s in Salt Lake City, where he made his mark at KSXX radio and KTVX TV. From there, he took his talents to KNDO TV in Yakima, WA, covering both sports and news before setting his sights on a career that would take him to some of the biggest stages in sports.
With a front-row seat to history, Ron has covered the Stanley Cup Finals, Super Bowls, World Series, NBA Finals, and NCAA Championships. For over three decades, he has been the voice of Las Vegas sports, chronicling the city’s most unforgettable moments— from the rise and fall of UNLV basketball to the careers of legends like Greg Maddux, Andre Agassi, Randall Cunningham, and Mike Tyson. His expertise extends beyond the pros, as he’s become a trusted name in local sports, covering high school and club competitions with the same passion and dedication.
Where there’s a game, there’s a story— and Ron is there to tell it.