November 14, 2025
As basketball season tips off, excitement is building across campus, and nowhere is that energy stronger than in the University of Southern Indiana Radio and Television Program. Students from 95.7 FM The Spin and The Nest are already hard at work preparing to bring fans closer to the Screaming Eagles than ever before.
Behind the Mic with 965.7 FM The Spin
Preparation for basketball season begins for the student broadcasters at 95.7 FM The Spin, USI’s student-run radio station, long before the first whistle. The team starts planning during the offseason, meeting with both the Men’s and Women’s Basketball coaches to discuss storylines and gather insight. From there, they create detailed “spotting charts,” listing players’ names and numbers to help them with live broadcasts.
“When the games roll around, we send out a play-by-play announcer and color analyst to sit courtside and describe the action,” says Matthew Kolb, Sports Director for The Spin. “We also have a board operator back at the station who manages audio levels, commercials and transitions throughout the game.”
Before each broadcast, the crew sets up the Comrex unit, a specialized device that connects them directly to the station, and conducts an hour of pregame prep. The broadcast includes a 15-minute pregame show, full play-by-play coverage and a 15-minute postgame wrap-up that often features a coach or player interview. Afterward, the team breaks down equipment and ensures the recording is saved for archiving.
“It’s a detailed process,” Kolb explained. “But it’s worth it every time we go live and get to share the energy of USI Basketball with our listeners.”
A Passion for Sports and Storytelling
Kolb, who is from Charlestown, Indiana, just across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, has been a key part of The Spin’s sports coverage during his time at USI. Set to graduate in Spring 2026, he is majoring in sport management with a radio and television minor, a combination that perfectly fits his interests.
“Truthfully, the quality of the dorms was what first drew me to USI,” Kolb said. “But once I got here, it was the opportunities that really stood out. I’ve always loved sports, and being part of The Spin let me combine that passion with broadcasting.”
Kolb first connected with the station at freshman orientation after briefly exploring rugby and ultimate frisbee on campus. “When I realized rugby wasn’t for me, I found my place with The Spin,” he said. “John Morris, our General Manager, reached out the summer before I arrived and told me it was a paid position. Honestly, most of what we do, I’d do for free... it’s that fun.”
For Kolb, the most rewarding part of his work is the thrill of live broadcasting. “Once a broadcast starts, you’re just talking about sports to a live audience. That’s the best feeling,” he said. “The travel’s pretty cool too.”
As Sports Director, Kolb’s responsibilities have increased. “The biggest challenge is communication,” he said. “There are a lot of moving parts, coaches, lineups and travel details, and keeping all of that organized takes time and coordination.”
After graduation, Kolb hopes to work in radio around the greater Kentuckiana area, but he’s also open to joining an Athletic Department to pursue his goal of becoming an athletic director. His advice to other students is simple: “Bro up with your professors. They want to help you succeed, talk to them and get to know them. And get involved. College is full of opportunities, and you only get to experience it once.”
Leading the Charge at The Nest
On the visual side of USI’s media scene, The Nest, the University’s student video production organization, is capturing the sights and sounds of Screaming Eagles Basketball for social media. At the head of the operation is Lillie Robertson, a senior from Evansville, who serves as President and Lead Producer.
“Since I’m local to the area, USI was always on my radar,” Robertson said. “I received a few scholarships that made USI really affordable, and I loved the friendly atmosphere. The small class sizes make it easy to connect with professors and classmates.”
Originally a chemistry major, Robertson switched to marketing after conversations with family members in the field. “Marketing felt like the right fit for my interests and personality,” she said. “It’s in every industry, which means there are endless opportunities.” She will graduate this Fall.
Robertson’s involvement on campus has been extensive. She’s participated in College Mentors for Kids, Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), The Shield and The Spin, and she’s currently a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA), in addition to leading The Nest.
She first learned about The Nest from Dr. McManus Woodend, Assistant Professor of Radio and Television, while taking RTV 255: Media Production. “Video production was something I developed a strong interest in early on,” Robertson said. “The Nest has given me the chance to refine my skills, gain hands-on experience and work with other students who are passionate about storytelling and media.”
Telling USI’s Story Through Video
At The Nest, students take on professional-style production roles while covering a range of campus events, including basketball. Each game is assigned to a student producer who films footage and edits it into a short, engaging highlight video for The Nest on Instagram.
“The most enjoyable part of working at The Nest is being able to get real experience that mirrors what happens in the industry,” Robertson said. “We use professional-level gear and editing software that’s used on real sets. It’s a great feeling to see your work published and shared by the University.”
Still, the role isn’t without challenges. “Keeping production on schedule can be tough,” she admitted. “We have a lot of projects happening at once, so time management and coordination are key.”
After graduation, Robertson plans to enter the entertainment industry, focusing on film, television or media. “I’m keeping an open mind,” she said. “I want to explore every opportunity and plan to move to a larger city within a year after graduation.”
Her advice for students reflects her own journey of exploration and openness.
“Keep an open mind and take every opportunity you’re given. You never know where it might take you. And for prospective USI students, know that USI genuinely cares about your success. The professors are always willing to help, both in class and beyond.”
Hands-On Learning, Real-World Impact
Both The Spin and The Nest showcase the value of hands-on learning in the College of Liberal Arts. “Covering USI Basketball gives students practical experience in broadcasting, production and digital storytelling,” said Woodend. “They’re learning to communicate effectively, work as a team and deliver professional-level content under tight deadlines.”
As the Screaming Eagles take the court this season, fans can tune in to 95.7 The Spin for live coverage or follow The Nest for behind-the-scenes highlights, all powered by passionate students like Matthew Kolb and Lillie Robertson, who are turning their love for media and storytelling into meaningful careers.