ESPN’s Dick Vitale Candidly Shares Ongoing Struggles With Cancer

In 2023, Dick Vitale underwent radiation therapy for vocal cord cancer after being diagnosed in July of that year.

This followed previous cancer battles, including a diagnosis of lymphoma in October 2021 and melanoma. By August 2022, Vitale announced he was in remission from both cancers.

However, in June 2023, Dick Vitale shared on Instagram that a biopsy revealed a new cancer in one of his lymph nodes, requiring further medical attention.

As part of ESPN's Jimmy V Week for cancer research, legendary college basketball announcer Vitale shared a personal update on his ongoing cancer battle on Tuesday.

Following a heartfelt video tribute during the Miami-Arkansas game, the beloved ESPN voice took to social media to express his gratitude for the recognition and provide an update on his health journey.

“I am touched tonight seeing this video from my buddies at ESPN. I’m constantly thinking about Dec. 12 when I have a major scan to determine if I’m cancer free after my recent 30 radiation treatments. [prayer hand emojis],” the longtime sports announcer said in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter."

“If I am, it would be my NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!” he added.

In a December 5 update, Vitale shared, “I feel terrific but have lots of anxiety about the exam. Cancer patients I’m sure know that feeling.”

Speaking with the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, as reported by The Spun, the sports announcer expressed optimism about the upcoming scan. “Obviously, I would love to be able to sit at courtside and do what I love: talk about what is happening in college basketball,” Vitale said.

He continued, "At this moment, I am simply focusing on what I am currently dealing with and that is to follow the advice of my medical team and become cancer-free at the conclusion of my six weeks of radiation treatments."

Vitale has been a cornerstone of ESPN since its inception in 1979, calling the network's first-ever college basketball broadcast. Beyond his legendary career as a sportscaster and former coach, Vitale is also a dedicated advocate and fundraiser for cancer research.

One of his most memorable moments came in 1993, when he helped his friend Jim Valvano to the stage at the ESPYs. It was there that Valvano delivered his iconic "Don't give up" speech, a message that continues to inspire. Tragically, Valvano passed away from adenocarcinoma less than two months later, but his legacy lives on, in part through Vitale's tireless efforts to support cancer research.

Vitale's cancer update comes one day after Randy Moss announced he would taking a break from "Sunday NFL Countdown" to prioritize his health.

"Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss will step away from 'Sunday NFL Countdown' for an extended time to focus on a personal health challenge. He briefly addressed the matter at the start of the show on Dec. 1," ESPN began in their statement. "For nearly a decade, Randy has been an invaluable member of the team, consistently elevating Countdown with his insight and passion. He has ESPN’s full support, and we look forward to welcoming him back when he is ready."

During the December 1 broadcast, Moss opened up to viewers, revealing that his family is "battling something internally" and sharing his determination to be present for the show, saying, "I couldn't miss the show because I wanted to be here with you guys."

Moss, who wore sunglasses during the pregame segment, directly addressed their significance. He reassured viewers, stating, "I have some great doctors around me" and emphasized that he feels "great." However, he explained the reason for his choice of eyewear, adding, "If y'all see me with these Michigan turnover glasses that I have on, it's not being disrespectful because I'm on television. Man, I'm battling something—I need all the prayer warriors."

Ahead of the December 1 broadcast, Moss took to Instagram to open up about his condition, offering more details about the challenges he and his family are currently navigating. "Throughout the week of the holidays, your boy has been battling something internal," Moss shared on his social media. “I just ask for all the prayer warriors to put their blessing hands on me and my family through these hard times.”

He added, "Y'all do your checkups, get your blood work done, and we’ll work through it."