In the wake of the unexpected passing of renowned sportswriter John Feinstein last month, various conferences, including the Atlantic 10 and the ACC, took steps to commemorate his legacy during their tournament events. On Saturday, this tribute continued as Feinstein was honored before the first of two Final Four games at the Alamodome in San Antonio.
Ahead of the matchup between the Auburn Tigers and the Florida Gators, Rob Dauster, founder of Field of 68, shared a photo on X showcasing an empty seat for Feinstein, adorned with a framed picture, a Final Four program, and his press credentials.
John Feinstein’s seat saved here on press row. pic.twitter.com/CNJlvptv8V
— Rob Dauster (@RobDauster) April 5, 2025
NCAA Director of Media Coordination David Worlock also expressed his thoughts in a post on X, stating, “We honor the late, great John Feinstein by leaving his seat empty tonight at the Final Four.”
We honor the late, great John Feinstein by leaving his seat empty tonight at the Final Four. https://t.co/bqwyJFi0GL
— David Worlock (@DavidWorlock) April 5, 2025
Feinstein was known for covering various sports throughout his career at The Washington Post, authoring 44 books on topics including baseball, football, basketball, tennis, and golf. However, his most notable contribution came in college basketball with his book “A Season on the Brink,” which provided an in-depth look at the 1985-86 Indiana Hoosiers Men’s Basketball team and their coach Bob Knight. This heartfelt tribute did not go unnoticed, as many media members lauded the NCAA for their respectful acknowledgment.
Mike Waters of Syracuse.com referred to it as “A touching tribute,” while Justin Gaard from KFAN 100.3 in Minneapolis expressed his sentiments, stating, “Missed seeing him in San Antonio. Missed seeing Bill Walton. Missed seeing John Thompson.”
A touching tribute. https://t.co/2YStZesbSa
— Mike Waters (@MikeWatersSYR) April 5, 2025
It is clear that Feinstein is deeply missed by countless sports media personalities across the nation, further evidencing that his legacy will endure long after his untimely passing.
