Dick Vitale provides positive update following accident, return setback

After recovering from lymph node cancer this past winter, Dick Vitale was supposed to make his return to broadcasting on Jan. 25. However, Vitale’s return was delayed after he suffered a fall earlier this month. On Friday, the legendary sportscaster provided an update on his condition.

“Just received the results of my cat scan of my head earlier today from Dr Cassidy my neurosurgeon & he was very pleased with my improvement from my accident last Friday,” Vitale wrote on X. “It was great to get his positive report [prayers are] powerful & GOD is so so GOOD!”

In June 2024, Vitale revealed he had been diagnosed with lymph node cancer and would undergo treatment. It was Vitale’s fourth battle with cancer since 2021, previously surviving lymphoma, melanoma and vocal cord cancer.

On Jan. 8, Vitale announced that he’d defeated cancer once again.

“I am absolutely ecstatic and I can’t believe this is happening after going through five major vocal cord surgeries, 65 radiation treatments and chemotherapy for six months,” Vitale said. “It’s been a very tough journey, but all of the prayers and messages from the beautiful fans have inspired me.

“I just hope that I can offer the people some basketball insights that can bring even more excitement to the game.”

Vitale has been bringing basketball fans excitement for over 40 years. Vitale began his broadcasting career in 1979 after he parted ways with the Detroit Pistons, who he coached for two seasons.

Over time, Dick Vitale has become an icon in the community, calling legendary games and popularizing catchphrases like “diaper dandy.” In 2019, Vitale received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Emmy Awards for his contributions to broadcasting.

Vitale is also in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, College Basketball Hall of Fame and New Jersey Hall of Fame. Although Vitale has gained notoriety for his instantly recognizable voice and endless enthusiasm, perhaps his greatest achievements have been away from the hardwood.

In 1993, Vitale helped create the V Foundation for Cancer Research to honor his late friend and longtime NC State coach Jim Valvano. Over 30 years, Vitale has helped raise millions of dollars for cancer research and inspired others through his own battles against the disease.

Now, fans can only hope to see Vitale return to the broadcasting booth sooner rather than later. They can rest assured that Vitale will attack the task with unmatched enthusiasm when given the chance.