Finding his position in sports broadcasting

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Grady Titus

By Colin Bowyer, Communications Manager - June 25, 2025

Grady Titus, ‘17, didn’t grow up with a camera in his hand or a microphone clipped to his shirt, but in the quiet town of Ferndale, California, surrounded by the redwoods and the rhythm of small-town life, he was immersed in a world of storytelling. His mother and older sister were both journalists, and while he didn’t initially see himself following in their footsteps, the seeds of communication were planted early.

In high school, Titus’ world revolved around sports, both participating in and watching. He didn’t yet know that his love for sports and his family’s storytelling proficiency would eventually merge into a career.

“When I arrived at Oregon State, I was still looking to declare a major,” explained Titus. “I was interested in multimedia production, but didn’t know where to start. In a conversation with my advisor, they suggested the School of Communication’s digital communication arts (DCA) program. That conversation changed everything.” 

Around the same time and fueled by his love for OSU sports, he landed an internship opportunity with OSU Athletics, working with the production and broadcast team. Starting behind the camera, Titus took on roles as a grip and production assistant. During live sporting events, he worked in the broadcast truck, learning the ropes from both OSU staff and professional crews from ESPN and the Pac-12 Network.

In the classroom, the DCA curriculum built a strong multimedia foundation for Titus to grow. Courses in pre-production and video editing taught him how to craft a story from the ground up, starting with storyboards and progressing to camera work and lighting. Dan Faltesak’s New Media Futures (NMC 101) class was a major influence, as well as the late-Bill Lodges’ theoretical media courses.

Titus explained, “The year after graduating, I continued to take on freelance videographer contracts for OSU sporting events. It was a great period dedicated to learning more in the video booth and behind the camera.”

Then, looking for a change of pace, Titus moved to South Carolina to become a full-time video production assistant for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs. In Myrtle Beach, Titus directed baseball broadcasts and honed his editing skills, where he would piece together interviews and footage to tell a compelling story.

Titus’ first full-time job followed at Boise State Athletics, where he joined the broadcasting team. It was a “steep learning curve,” but the supportive environment helped him grow quickly.

Eventually, Titus set his sights on Portland. He joined a smaller creative team in the Portland State University Athletics department as director of game production and fan experience. Titus partnered with PSU’s School of Film to build a student videography team supporting PSU student athletes, striving to deliver some of the best storytelling in the Big Sky Conference. He wore many hats, (mentor, technician, producer, etc.) and found fulfillment in supporting student-athletes and telling their stories.

“It was a transformative experience and I’m really proud of the work I did there,” explained Titus. “It was a small team with a lot of flexibility to explore new ideas, like developing the creative video team consisting of all PSU students.”

When the University of Portland came calling, Titus was ready for a new challenge. The school had made significant investments in its broadcasting infrastructure and Titus saw an opportunity to help shape something from the ground up. Today, as Assistant Athletic Director of Broadcast Operations, Titus’ day-to-day is a blend of preparation and production. He ensures games are properly staffed, works with on-air talent to identify storylines, tests equipment, and creates graphics. Additionally, Titus is lead producer and director of UP's ESPN+/TV broadcasts.

“Collaboration is key,” said Titus. “All of UP’s games are broadcast on ESPN+, so I’m meeting regularly with coaches to understand the narratives behind the games and preparing our in-booth and on-air staff. It may be a surprise to people, but the job is heavily story-telling based.”

Titus also continues to freelance, working as a technical advisor with the Rip City Remix, the G League affiliate of the Portland Trail Blazers. 

Looking back, TItus credits his success to the DCA program and a willingness to say “yes,” to internships, freelance gigs, and hands-on learning opportunities. His advice for those looking to enter the broadcasting world: “When you get your foot in the door, show up on time, ask questions, and do whatever you can to help. Surround yourself with smart people. Don’t dismiss the stepping stones.”

And above all, he says, “Be a good coworker. Have a good attitude. Be kind and helpful.”