Herb Bauer’s exit from his long-time job as PA Announcer was a sad scene for many Xavier fans. They asked, who will take Herb’s iconic spot along the sideline? Xavier has found just the guy in Barrett Cohen. Barrett will be the new “Voice of Cintas”, as conned in his username on X/Twitter. Cohen is the Director of Community Engagement at Archbishop Moeller High School and will be stepping into his new role at Xavier. Barrett was kind enough to answer some questions for SSM. Let’s jump into the questions!
New PA Announcer Barrett Cohen
Credits: @BigMoBarrett on X
How do you plan to fill such big shoes at Cintas?
I don’t think there is any way I can fill the shoes of a legend in Herb Bauer. I can definitely honor him by continuing his professional dedication to Xavier Baskeball and the great fans of this university. I don’t underestimate that responsibility.
How does your work at Moeller differ from what you do at Xavier?
My role at Moeller is going to the highest mountain-top to share the amazing things happening at Big Moe while intentionally engaging students, alumni and fans along the way. At Xavier, I’d love to be more than a voice behind the mic. Meeting fans and getting to tell stories about their love and passion for the Musketeers is something that really interests me.
What excites you the most about the new opportunity?
Being a longtime fan of Xavier Basketball, I’m excited to sit courtside every night and share in the excitement of Xavier Basketball with fans every game.
Will you have a signature call? Something like Herb’s three-pointers?
I think my style will develop organically after I get my first few games under my belt. I think once I get a feel for the team, the crowd and the atmosphere, I will lock into something special that the fans will enjoy and feed off of.
What are your expectations for Richard Pitino’s squad this year?
I am very excited about this team and to watch how they develop throughout the season under the direction of Coach Pitino. I’m interested to watch who steps up in a leadership role. This is going to be a dangerous squad when tournament time rolls around.
What’s your best piece of advice for someone trying to enter a similar line of work?
Always jump in to help. Whether it’s grade school, high school, summer league or AAU. If someone is looking for a voice, bring the energy, jump in and get some reps.
Favorite Xavier player of all time?
NO QUESTION!! Byron Larkin. I grew up watching Bryon as a kid. Then, I get hired by Moeller and become good friends with Byron. My first call after getting the new gig was from Byron Larkin, followed by Joe Sunderman. It was two calls I will never forget.
Big shoes to fill? Absolutely. But as Barrett gets set to take the mic at Cintas Center, it’s clear he has the respect, passion, and energy for the job. We appreciate him stopping by to share his story with us—now it’s time to count down the days until tip-off.
Links
While you are here, I highly recommend checking out his press release here:
https://goxavier.com/news/2026/8/5/xavier-welcomes-barrett-cohen-as-mens-basketball-pa-announcer
On top of that, follow his new Twitter/X account:
Use code SSM25 at https://statelineco.shop/ for a great discount on some awesome apparel! (Xavier gear dropping soon)
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