Dick Vitale, the legendary voice of college basketball, is set to turn 86 in June. Despite recent health challenges, the longtime broadcaster and former coach plans to stay courtside for at least two more seasons.
Vitale’s enthusiasm for the game remains unmatched, and his relentless spirit has carried him through another major battle — cancer. This week, he shared some incredible news: He is officially cancer-free.
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Social media lit up with heartfelt reactions from fans, colleagues and players, all praising Vitale’s resilience and deep love for the sport.
Even the official NCAA March Madness account celebrated the announcement, posting: “The words we’ve all been waiting to hear: @DickieV is cancer-free.”
Known affectionately as “Dickie V,” Vitale has been a staple of college basketball broadcasts for decades. His catchphrases like “This is awesome, baby!” and “Diaper dandy!” are part of the sport’s cultural fabric.
Popular college basketball analyst Dick Vitale.Evert Nelson / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Vitale’s health issues began in 2021 when he had melanoma removed. In January 2022, he took time off to rest his voice and underwent vocal cord surgery. He made his return that November at the Champions Classic.
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In June 2024, he faced yet another diagnosis — lymph node cancer. But once again, Vitale fought back and overcame it.
Despite everything, Vitale isn’t slowing down. He recently signed a two-year contract extension with ESPN that will keep him on air through the winter of 2028.
In addition to broadcasting, Vitale has authored 14 books, the most recent of which was released after the 2020 NCAA Tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vitale continues to inspire not just with his basketball knowledge but with his courage and determination.
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