Dick Vitale Celebrates Return to Broadcast After Cancer Battle

ESPN analyst calls broadcasting "the greatest medicine" as he signs contract extension through 2028

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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ESPN college basketball analyst Dick Vitale spoke emotionally about his return to broadcasting during a recent Duke-Clemson game, calling it "the greatest medicine in the world" as he continues his battle with cancer. Vitale, who has had to step away from the airwaves due to his treatments, signed a contract extension with ESPN that will keep him on the network through the 2027-28 season.

Why it matters

Vitale is a beloved figure in college basketball known for his infectious enthusiasm and passion for the game. His return to broadcasting after cancer treatments is seen as an inspiration, and his long-term contract extension ensures he will continue to be a signature voice on ESPN's coverage of the sport.

The details

During the Duke-Clemson broadcast, Vitale spoke about the joy he feels being back on the air, saying "being in an arena and being with guys who love the game is just the greatest high I can get." He also thanked the fans and his ESPN colleagues for their support during his cancer battles. Vitale first joined ESPN in 1979 and has become synonymous with the network's college basketball coverage over his decades-long career.

  • Vitale signed a contract extension with ESPN that will keep him on the network through the 2027-28 season.
  • Vitale made his emotional comments during ESPN's broadcast of the Duke-Clemson game on February 14, 2026.

The players

Dick Vitale

A long-time college basketball analyst for ESPN who is beloved for his infectious enthusiasm and passion for the game.

Jimmy Pitaro

The chairman of ESPN, who praised Vitale's "kindness, generosity and courage" and announced the creation of an annual "Dick Vitale Invitational" event.

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What they’re saying

“Dick is the heart of college basketball, and his kindness, generosity and courage are a constant inspiration to us all.”

— Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN Chairman (on3.com)

“ESPN has been such a vital part of my life since December 5, 1979, and I was so thrilled to learn that ESPN Events will have an annual Dick Vitale Invitational.”

— Dick Vitale (on3.com)

What’s next

The first annual Dick Vitale Invitational event will be held later this year, celebrating Vitale's impact on college basketball.

The takeaway

Dick Vitale's return to broadcasting after his cancer battle is a testament to his passion for the game and the support he has received from fans and colleagues. His long-term contract extension ensures he will continue to be a beloved and inspiring voice in college basketball for years to come.