Dick Vitale set to make broadcasting return after two years following cancer recovery, setbacks

After nearly two years away from the broadcasting booth, Dick Vitale will return on Saturday to call the Clemson–Duke game on ESPN. Vitale was initially supposed to make his return on Jan. 25 but was delayed after suffering a fall.

However, on Jan. 24, Vitale provided a positive update on his recovery.

“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!”

Now, Vitale will officially make his return and it’s been a long time coming. 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 come 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 the course of 30 years, Vitale has helped raise millions of dollars for cancer research and inspired others through his own battles against the disease.

Watch Dick Vitale make his broadcasting return when Duke and Clemson square off on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET. The game will air live on ESPN.