Brad Pye, Jr., a trailblazing sports writer and broadcaster, passed away at his home in Los Angeles on July 5. Pye, who was recognized throughout the nation for his pioneering efforts on behalf of African American athletes.

A native of Plain Dealing, Louisiana, Pye was born on June 11, 1931 and although he came from humble beginnings, he grew up to become an award-winning broadcaster. His sportscast, “Switch reels,” was heard throughout the Southland on radio stations KGFJ, KACE, KJLH and KDAY.

Pye attained many “firsts” during his long career. His achievements include being the first recognized African American sportswriter in Southern California, the first Black administrator for the NFL Commissioner and the first African American public relations and scout for the Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers.

Also, he served nearly 30 years as the sports editor for the Los Angeles Sentinel. In this capacity, the newspaper won top awards from the National Newspaper Publishers Association for 10 consecutive years. In addition, Pye led the effort in the 1960s for African American journalists to be admitted to the press areas of professional sports teams.