Legendary College Basketball Advertiser Dick Vitale was brought to tears during Saturday night’s Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament Championship when he reflected on his latest cancer battle and what it meant to be back in the court after announcing he was cancer -free in December.
The 85-year-old advertiser sat with Espns Dave O’Brien and Cory Alexander and became emotional in the last moments of the first half of Duke-Louisville finale.
Dick Vitale at Coleman Coliseum for the game between Alabama and Kentucky on February 22, 2025. (Gary Cosby Jr.-Tuscaloosa News)
“It’s my last game this year, and hopefully I can be back next year, maybe even better – maybe even better,” said vital, thanking all those who have helped through this process.
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“I hope and beg my doctor really helps me with my voice.”
Vital review an operation last summer to remove Cancer lymph nodes from his throat. He was previously treated for melanoma and lymphoma and had radiotherapy last year for vocal wiring cancer.
Tennessee players celebrate with Dick Vitale after the Alabama game at the Thompson-Boling Arena in the Food City Center, March 1, 2025. (IMagn)
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“It’s been like me, a miracle that really sits here with you,” continued vital, tearful. “I can’t tell you how much it meant to me. It’s been incredible. A tough three years. These four cancer battles. I don’t want it on anyone. Cancer sucks.”
“I want to tell you this, someone who is fighting against cancer, you need to listen: Always think positively and faith and faith.”
ESPN -Analyst Dick Vitale before the game between Tennessee Volunteers and Alabama Crimson Tide on March 1, 2025. (Randy Sartin-Preferred Pictures)
Vitale said Saturday’s ACC final would be his last of the season. He said earlier in X that he was only able to announce one game a week because of the doctor’s orders.
“Those who pray y
