Dick Vitale Cleared to Return to ESPN Broadcasts After Cancer-Free Diagnosis

The 85-year-old legendary college basketball broadcaster celebrates a clean bill of health after battling multiple cancers in recent years.

Dick Vitale announced he has been cleared by doctors to return to courtside broadcasting for ESPN after a vocal cord examination confirmed he is cancer-free.
The broadcaster has faced four cancer diagnoses since 2021, including melanoma, lymphoma, and vocal cord cancer, but was declared cancer-free in December 2024 following extensive treatments.
Vitale has not called a game since 2022, and his return marks the end of a three-year absence from the broadcast booth.
Fans, players, and prominent figures like LeBron James have expressed excitement and support for Vitale’s anticipated return to college basketball coverage.
Vitale has been a cornerstone of ESPN’s college basketball programming since 1979, known for his enthusiasm, iconic catchphrases, and deep passion for the sport.