Dick Vitale’s return to announcing will have to wait a little longer. On Saturday, ESPN released a statement from Vitale announcing that his planned return—set for Duke’s game at Wake Forest on Saturday, Jan. 25—will have to be further postponed. Vitale clarified that the postponement is not related to cancer.
“Unrelated to any of my cancer scares, I had an accident at my home in Florida, and that has created some new health challenges and near-term physical limitations for me,” Vitale said. “I’m devastated that I won’t be courtside with my ESPN buddy Dave O’Brien and with all the players and fans, especially because of the overwhelming response I received when news of my planned return was announced. I was anxiously awaiting the chance to feel the excitement and energy of a college basketball environment for the first time in nearly two years. Now I’m just going to have to wait some more. I’m not exactly sure when that will be, yet I’m expected to make a full recovery and will provide more updates when I have more information. Despite this latest setback, I feel blessed to have the support of my family, friends and ESPN teammates. I’m a lucky guy and as I’ve said before, I will continue to do whatever it takes to get back to calling the sport I love. In the meantime, I have to say ‘Go Irish’ on Monday night. Love to all.”
An update from @DickieV on his broadcast return.
All of us at ESPN are sending our best wishes to Dick for a speedy recovery. pic.twitter.com/4szfaDib7j
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) January 18, 2025
Vitale called the 2023 National Championship Game between UConn and San Diego State but has been sidelined for nearly two years as he’s battled cancer.
