Dick Vitale delays broadcasting return amid recovery from cancer battle

College basketball fans will have to wait longer than expected to hear Dick Vitale’s iconic voice radiate from their televisions again. On Monday, ESPN announced the legendary commentator will have to delay the debut of his 45th season calling ESPN men’s college games due ongoing health needs related to his throat.

“While I’m disappointed with the latest developments, I remain hopeful,” Vitale said. “The cancer is gone, which is amazing news, yet the impact of the treatments has taken its toll on my voice and requires more healing. 

“With the season started, I am jumping out of my shoes to be back in the college basketball arenas, calling the game I love and being around so many great colleagues and fans. I have to listen to the medical experts, who have been so good to me, and with some more rest, I know I will be back for my 45th season. I’ve been so touched by the amazing response I’ve received.”

Vitale initially planned on returning on Nov. 28 to cover Kentucky–Miami at Rupp Arena, which will be the programs’ first meeting in the inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge. While Vitale will be forced to wait longer than expected, his recovery has been nothing short of miraculous.

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In July, Vitale announced he had been diagnosed with vocal cord cancer and would undergo treatment. This battle has been Vitale’s third fight with cancer since 2021, previously surviving lymphoma and melanoma. Vitale claims he has not been able to talk for nearly seven months due to the treatment.

Vitale was understandably emotional in October when he announced he was cancer free.

“I love all of you and I thank all of you for your prayers and your unbelievable love you’ve sent me. It meant so much to me. I tell you, It’s been tough. It’s been tough. I just say have faith. Think positive and I’ve tried to do that. God bless all of you.

“I’m emotional. I’m excited,” Vitale said. “I didn’t speak, you gotta understand now, for seven months. You’re the first people hearing my voice in a long, long time.”

Vitale and his doctor have not yet specified a return date. However, his throat’s recovery will continued to be monitored closely. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro is optimistic for his return.

“Dick has the full support of his entire ESPN family, and, while we look forward to a return to his rightful courtside perch, he needs to focus on fully mending his vocal cords,” Pitaro said. “Sports fans everywhere will anxiously await his comeback whenever he is ready.”