Bill 'Bubba' Bussey of 'Rick & Bubba Show' Joins Jacksonville State Athletic Department as Assistant Athletic Director for Broadcasting

Bill “Bubba” Bussey, renowned co-host of the popular “Rick & Bubba Show,” is set to embark on a new chapter as he joins the athletic administration at Jacksonville State University (JSU). A proud alumnus of Jax State, Bussey will take on the role of Assistant Athletics Director for Broadcasting, where he will oversee the broadcasting operations for various JSU athletic events, including coaches' shows.

JSU Athletics Director, Greg Seitz, expressed his excitement about the addition, saying, “We’re thrilled to have someone with Bill’s extensive experience and expertise leading our athletic broadcasting team. His background as an engineer, his on-air experience, and his skills in building, operating, and expanding a broadcasting network will undoubtedly strengthen and enhance our athletic broadcasting division.”

Bussey’s journey in radio began during his college years at JSU, where he worked at the campus station WLJS in the early 1980s. Along with fellow JSU alum Rick Burgess, Bussey co-launched the “Rick & Bubba Show” in 1994 in Birmingham, which eventually grew to be syndicated across numerous stations nationwide.

Earlier this year, Bussey and Burgess announced that “The Rick & Bubba Show” will conclude at the end of 2024. Now, Bussey is returning to his roots, bringing his wealth of experience back to his alma mater.

“I’m incredibly excited to return to Jacksonville State University as the Assistant Athletic Director overseeing Athletic Broadcasting,” said Bussey. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back to my hometown and alma mater, where I’ve created so many cherished memories. We’re eager to elevate JSU’s mission and boost the visibility of our outstanding institution by expanding the reach of our growing athletic program. Let’s #staycocky!”

Bussey is the latest high-profile addition to the JSU broadcast department. Earlier this year, Eli Gold, a legendary radio voice with over 30 years of experience calling Alabama football and other sports, joined the team to call select home football and baseball games on ESPN+.