OAKLAND, California — The most spellbinding stretch of the most magical season in the history of one of sports’ most downtrodden fan bases is ending, and Jim Barnett needs a moment.

Jim is courtside at Oracle Arena in Oakland, in what’s been his seat for three decades now. It’s his 30th year as a TV analyst for Warriors basketball games. Seated beside him is Bob Fitzgerald, Comcast SportsNet (CSN) Bay Area’s play-by-play man, and Jim’s fourth such partner on local broadcasts. With each passing minute, the duo gets more and more excited.

An earnest demeanor, endless wealth of hoops knowledge, bushy mustache and spectacles have made Jim a beloved figure in Warriors fandom. His unintentional signature phrase — "Quite frankly" — encapsulates his vibe among Warriors fans: You're watching basketball with your favorite uncle or grandfather, but one who happens to be a tenured professor of basketball.

Warriors fans suffered through season after season of awfulness for most of Jim’s three decades, his voice the soundtrack. He was a rare bright spot during many a crappy year.