The 85-year-old was greeted by a standing ovation from the crowd.
Dominik Bindl/Getty
LegendaryESPNbroadcaster Dick Vitale is finally back in the booth.
The in-arena announcer made sure to turn the spotlight to Vitale, who received a riotousstanding ovation.
Dick Vitale.Credit:Dominik Bindl/Getty
“Tonight, we celebrate the return of a true legend,” the announcer began.
“For over four decades, his passion, energy and unmistakable voice have defined the game we love.
After a two-year battle with cancer, he’s back where he belongs.
Dick Vitale in 2023.Mitchell Layton/Getty
Courtside, calling the action and inspiring us all.”
“I want to say thanks to all the people.
The reception here has been really off the charts,” Vitale said while fighting back tears.
Mitchell Layton/Getty
He continued, “This is like my Super Bowl.
And keep fighting and fighting.
I know what you’re going through and it’s not fun.”
Though he was declared cancer free by 2022, Vitale was next diagnosed withvocal cord cancerin 2023.
In ate December, Vitale announced that he had once again been declared cancer-free.
Throughout the medical battle, Vitale has dedicated time to raising funds for cancer research.
That same year, he announced the first-ever college basketball game shown on ESPN.
