Meet Alex Glaze: WJZ's Award-Winning Sports Director And Master Storyteller

In the dynamic world of broadcast journalism, certain names rise to prominence, not just for their reporting prowess but for their ability to connect with audiences and tell compelling stories. One such name making significant waves in Baltimore is Alex Glaze. An award-winning reporter and the recently appointed Sports Director at WJZ, Glaze brings a unique blend of local roots, extensive experience, and a genuine passion for both sports and the art of storytelling to his role. His journey from an Ellicott City native to a leading voice in Baltimore's sports coverage is a testament to his dedication and talent.

From Ellicott City to Baltimore's Airwaves: Alex Glaze's Journey

Alex Glaze's connection to Maryland runs deep. Hailing from Ellicott City, his local upbringing provides him with an intrinsic understanding of the community he now serves. This local insight, combined with a solid academic foundation, laid the groundwork for his burgeoning career in journalism.

Roots and Education

Glaze pursued his higher education at Towson University, a notable institution within Maryland. This educational background equipped him with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the competitive landscape of broadcast media. It was during these formative years that his passion for journalism, particularly sports journalism, began to solidify.

Building a Career: Early Stops

Before making his mark in Baltimore, Alex Glaze honed his craft across various markets, gaining invaluable experience as a sports anchor and reporter. His career trajectory saw him take on significant roles in different cities, each contributing to his growth as a versatile journalist:

Toledo, Ohio: One of his early stops included working as a weekend sports anchor in Toledo. This role provided him with hands-on experience in covering local sports, delivering timely updates, and engaging with a regional audience.
Atlanta, Georgia: Moving to a larger market, Glaze served as a weekend sports anchor for an NBC affiliate in Atlanta. This experience in a major metropolitan area, known for its vibrant sports scene, further broadened his expertise and refined his on-air presence. It was during this period that he articulated a core philosophy that drives his career: "I gravitated toward this industry because I love sports and I love storytelling." This statement perfectly encapsulates his dual passion, highlighting that for Glaze, reporting isn't just about relaying facts, but about weaving narratives that resonate with viewers.

These early experiences were crucial in shaping Glaze into the polished and perceptive reporter he is today, preparing him for the significant role he would eventually take on in his home state.

Joining WJZ: A Rapid Ascent

Alex Glaze officially joined the WJZ team in August 2022 as an award-winning reporter. His arrival marked a new chapter for the CBS Baltimore affiliate, as he quickly became a familiar and respected face on local television. His impact was immediate and undeniable, showcasing his ability to tackle a wide array of journalistic assignments beyond just the sports desk.

While his primary focus and passion lie in sports, Glaze has demonstrated remarkable versatility in his reporting. He has shown a keen ability to delve into sensitive and significant general news stories, illustrating his comprehensive journalistic skills. For instance, he has covered:

The police investigation into the tragic death of former Loyola basketball star Jamal Barney, found dead in West Baltimore.
Interviews with neighbors regarding serious criminal investigations, such as a case involving a man accused of killing his roommate.

These examples underscore Glaze's commitment to thorough reporting and his capability to handle complex narratives, proving his value as a well-rounded journalist for WJZ Channel 13 News in Baltimore, MD. His reporting style is characterized by a natural, easy-to-understand approach, making complex issues accessible to the general public.

Stepping into the Sports Director Role

In a significant career milestone, Alex Glaze was named WJZ Sports Director in September 2024, taking over from the recently retired Mark Viviano. This promotion is a clear recognition of his talent, dedication, and the profound impact he has had since joining the station. As Sports Director, Glaze now leads the sports coverage for WJZ, a role that encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities.

His new position tasks him with overseeing and delivering comprehensive sports news, ranging from major league professional teams to collegiate and local amateur sports. He covers a wide range of topics within the sports realm, including team sports and individual sports, while also delving into the human interest stories that make sports so compelling. Given his stated love for storytelling, this role is a natural fit, allowing him to craft narratives around the triumphs, challenges, and personalities that define the world of athletics.

As an American journalist of African descent, Glaze also brings an important perspective to his role, contributing to the diversity of voices in sports media. His appointment as Sports Director is not just a personal achievement but also a positive step for representation in local news leadership.

Beyond the Broadcast: Alex Glaze's Presence

Alex Glaze's engagement with his audience extends beyond the television screen. He maintains a strong presence on professional and social media platforms, using them to connect with viewers, share insights, and offer glimpses into his life both on and off air.

Connecting with the Audience

Glaze is an active user of platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, where he interacts with a broad audience:

LinkedIn: With over 500 connections, his LinkedIn profile serves as a professional hub, showcasing his experience with CBS News and Stations, his education from Towson University, and his current role at WJZ. It's a testament to his professional network and standing within the industry.
Instagram (@alexglaze): His Instagram account, boasting over 1,100 followers, offers a more personal yet professional look at his life. His bio succinctly captures his identity: "📺 @wjztv sports director 🏆 award-winning reporter 🏌🏽 wannabe golfer." This not only highlights his professional achievements but also reveals a touch of his personality and interests outside of work, making him more relatable to his followers.

These platforms allow him to foster a direct connection with the Baltimore community and sports enthusiasts, sharing updates, behind-the-scenes content, and his thoughts on current events.

A Commitment to Community and Journalism

Alex Glaze's career is defined by a clear commitment to impactful journalism. Whether he's breaking down the latest game statistics, interviewing a local athlete, or covering a serious community issue, his approach is always grounded in accuracy, empathy, and clarity. His role as Sports Director at WJZ further solidifies his position as a key figure in Baltimore's media landscape, someone who understands the pulse of the city and its passionate sports fans.

His dedication to hard work and his love for both his profession and life shine through in his interactions and reporting. He embodies the spirit of a modern journalist who is not only skilled in delivering news but also deeply invested in the stories he tells and the community he serves.

Conclusion

Alex Glaze stands as a shining example of a dedicated and talented journalist who has quickly risen through the ranks to become a pivotal figure at WJZ. From his roots in Ellicott City to his extensive experience across various markets, and now as the esteemed Sports Director for WJZ, Glaze's journey is marked by a consistent pursuit of excellence. His ability to seamlessly transition between sports and general news, coupled with his genuine passion for storytelling, makes him a valuable asset to the Baltimore community. As he continues to lead WJZ's sports coverage, viewers can undoubtedly look forward to compelling narratives, insightful analysis, and the unique perspective that only Alex Glaze can provide.