Dick Vitale Calls First Game in Two Years After Cancer Battle

Dick Vitale Calls First Game in Two Years After Cancer Battle \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Basketball legend Dick Vitale made an emotional return to ESPN on Saturday night, receiving a standing ovation at Clemson’s Littlejohn Coliseum before calling his first game in two years. The 85-year-old broadcaster, who recently declared himself cancer-free, was visibly moved as fans cheered for nearly a minute. Vitale, who has battled four types of cancer in the past four years, celebrated his recovery in December, saying, “It’s my National Championship!”

Dick Vitale’s ESPN Comeback: Quick Look

• Triumphant Return – Dick Vitale called his first game in two years after battling four types of cancer.
• Standing Ovation – Fans at Clemson’s Littlejohn Coliseum gave him a minute-long ovation before tipoff.
• Emotional Moment – The 85-year-old broadcaster waved to the crowd, visibly moved by the support.
• Cancer-Free Announcement – In December 2023, Vitale revealed his PET scan came back clean.
• Overcoming the Odds – He battled melanoma, lymphoma, vocal cord cancer, and cancerous lymph nodes.
• Legendary Career – Vitale has been the voice of college basketball for over 40 years on ESPN.
• Continued Advocacy – He remains a major fundraiser for The V Foundation for Cancer Research.
• What’s Next? – Vitale is expected to call more games for ESPN this season.

Deep Look

It was a night filled with emotion, resilience, and celebration as legendary ESPN broadcaster Dick Vitale made his long-awaited return to the commentary booth after a two-year absence due to his battle with cancer.

Vitale, known for his infectious enthusiasm and iconic catchphrases, received a standing ovation from fans at Clemson’s Littlejohn Coliseum on Saturday night, just minutes before tipoff of the game between Clemson and Duke. The return marked a significant milestone in Vitale’s career, as he overcame four different types of cancer in the last four years to reclaim his seat courtside.

A Standing Ovation for a Beloved Legend

About 30 minutes before the game, Vitale entered the arena to a thunderous ovation, with thousands of fans rising to their feet in recognition of his incredible journey back to the microphone.

Clemson’s PA announcer, in a tribute to Vitale’s signature style, greeted him with an enthusiastic “Dickie V, you’re awesome, baby!” as the 85-year-old broadcaster waved to the crowd with tears in his eyes.

For nearly a full minute, the stadium erupted in cheers as Vitale soaked in the moment, visibly moved by the overwhelming support and love from the fans, players, and fellow broadcasters.

It was a moment college basketball had been waiting for—the return of one of the most beloved voices in sports history.

The Road Back: Overcoming Four Cancer Battles

Vitale’s return to broadcasting was far from easy. Over the last four years, he has been diagnosed with and battled four different types of cancer, including:

• Melanoma
• Lymphoma
• Vocal cord cancer
• Cancerous lymph nodes in his neck

His most recent cancer battle forced him to step away from calling games for ESPN, as he underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments.

In July 2023, he had surgery to remove cancerous lymph nodes from his neck, just a year after receiving radiation therapy for vocal cord cancer. Prior to that, he had successfully beaten melanoma and lymphoma.

Despite the physical and emotional toll of his treatments, Vitale remained determined to return to the game he loves.

In December 2023, he delivered the news everyone was hoping for—he was cancer-free.

“SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr. Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN at 7 AM came back CLEAN OF CANCER!” Vitale posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Dec. 23.

“OMG thanks so much to ALL of YOU for your (prayers). Yes, I’m cutting the nets down, baby! It’s my National Championship!”

His message captured the joy, gratitude, and fighting spirit that has defined his remarkable journey.

Vitale’s Impact on College Basketball

For over four decades, Dick Vitale has been the voice of college basketball, bringing energy, passion, and signature catchphrases to ESPN’s coverage of the sport.

From his legendary phrases like:

• “Awesome, baby!”
• “Diaper dandy!” (for outstanding freshmen)
• “PTP’er!” (prime-time player)

…Vitale has defined the way college basketball is broadcasted, creating a unique connection with players, coaches, and fans.

His impact extends beyond broadcasting—he has been a major advocate for cancer research, raising millions of dollars for The V Foundation, a cancer research organization founded by his late friend Jim Valvano.

Vitale’s resilience and positivity throughout his cancer battle have made him a true inspiration, both inside and outside the world of sports.

The Significance of Vitale’s Comeback

For many fans, Vitale’s return symbolizes much more than basketball—it represents hope, perseverance, and the power of the human spirit.

To go from fighting for his life to calling a nationally televised game in front of thousands of fans is a testament to his willpower and love for the sport.

Coaches, players, and fellow broadcasters have rallied around Vitale, expressing their excitement and admiration for his remarkable comeback.

“We all love Dickie V, and seeing him courtside again is truly special. College basketball is better with him in it!” — ESPN broadcaster Jay Bilas

As he settled into his familiar seat behind the microphone, one thing was clear—college basketball wouldn’t be the same without Dick Vitale, and now, he’s officially back where he belongs.

What’s Next for Vitale?

With his successful return to broadcasting, Vitale will continue to call select college basketball games for ESPN throughout the remainder of the season.

His return has reignited excitement among fans and serves as a powerful reminder of his unwavering spirit.

Key Moments to Watch

1. Vitale’s upcoming game schedule – How many games will he call this season?
2. His continued advocacy for cancer research – Will he increase his efforts through The V Foundation?
3. The reaction from the college basketball world – How will teams and players honor Vitale’s comeback?

For now, basketball fans everywhere can celebrate one simple fact—Dickie V is back, baby!

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