Ad Disclosure
ESPN announces Dick Vitale cleared to return to broadcasting after starting cancer treatment
By Andrew Olson
Published:
The 2021-22 college basketball season is underway, but one of the sport’s icons has been missing. In October, Dick Vitale revealed that he had lymphoma, his second cancer diagnosis in a matter of months after having melanoma removed in August. Thursday, ESPN announced that Vitale will return to broadcasting next week.
Vitale is in the midst of a treatment plan that includes 6 months of chemotherapy. His doctor has given the green light to return to broadcasting.
“My family and I are absolutely jumping with joy,” Vitale said in a released statement. “Knowing I’ll be courtside with all my buddies and calling Number 1 versus 2, this is the best medicine I could ask for. To all of you, I simply say ‘thank you from the bottom of my heart’ for your prayers and messages, phone calls and texts.
“They gave me energy and lifted me up at a time that is not fun city – chemo for six months. To my ESPN family, starting with Jimmy Pitaro – I love you all. I’m so proud to start my 43rd year on Tuesday. Lastly, to the fans – you have given me a career that has exceeded any dream I’ve ever had.”
Vitale will begin his 43rd season with ESPN calling Tuesday’s showdown between No. 1 Gonzaga and No. 2 UCLA in the Good Sam Empire Classic.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
