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Dick Vitale receives standing ovation in return to broadcasting for ESPN
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Dick Vitale is a broadcasting icon and a legend in the world of college basketball. Unfortunately, he has not been in the broadcast booth in a few years due to a battle with cancer.
After many treatments and a span of 8 months that included Vitale not speaking at all, the longtime voice in the sport is finally back on the microphone for ESPN. He made his return in Saturday’s game between Duke and Clemson in ACC play.
Fans on hand for that game at Clemson made sure to recognize Vitale’s return with a heartfelt standing ovation inside the arena:
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Vitale also gave a passionate address to fans watching at home during a break in the first half, saying being back in the booth “beats the hell out of chemo.”
“I’m sorry for being so emotional, I can’t tell you how excited I am to be here,” said Vitale through held-back tears. “I was telling Corey before, this is like my Super Bowl, to be here sitting here courtside, doing a game. It beats the hell out of chemotherapy and radiation.
“I want to say to all cancer patients out there: Please, listen to me: Think positive, and have faith. Keep fighting and fighting and fighting. I know what you’re going through and it’s not fun, but to be here, this is my Super Bowl. This is my championship.”
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
