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Garland Today
By the People, for the People
ESPN Icon Dick Vitale Faces New Health Challenges
Legendary broadcaster announces abnormal test results, plans additional testing
Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:53pm
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An X-ray view into the body of a beloved sports icon reveals new medical concerns.Garland TodayLegendary ESPN college basketball commentator Dick Vitale announced on Wednesday that recent medical tests have shown some "abnormalities," prompting his doctors to recommend additional testing to determine next steps. Vitale, 86, has been open about his ongoing health battles, including overcoming multiple forms of cancer over the past several years.
Why it matters
Vitale has become an inspiration to many through his positive attitude and determination in the face of his health challenges. As one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting, any update on his condition is closely followed by his legions of fans and the broader basketball community.
The details
In his announcement, Vitale said he feels "great physically and sharp mentally," but that recent tests including a PET scan, CAT scan, and MRIs showed some abnormalities. His doctors have recommended additional testing, including a biopsy, to determine the next steps. Vitale has faced a series of health issues in recent years, including melanoma, lymphoma, vocal cord cancer, and lymph node cancer, all of which he has battled with resilience and positivity.
- In the summer of 2021, Vitale was diagnosed with melanoma.
- Weeks later in 2021, Vitale was diagnosed with lymphoma.
- In 2023, Vitale was diagnosed with vocal cord cancer.
- In 2024, Vitale underwent surgery after a biopsy showed lymph node cancer.
- In January 2025, Vitale was declared cancer-free.
The players
Dick Vitale
An 86-year-old legendary college basketball commentator for ESPN who has overcome multiple forms of cancer in recent years.
ESPN
The sports media network that has employed Vitale as a college basketball analyst since 1979.
What they’re saying
“While I feel great physically and sharp mentally, I heard from my doctors that the latest tests (which included a PET scan, then a CAT scan with two MRIs) showed some abnormalities. They are recommending some additional testing to determine next steps. I'm hoping for the best and we will see what the roadmap looks like after an upcoming biopsy.”
— Dick Vitale, ESPN Broadcaster
“As always, I plan to remain as active as ever and fight as hard as can be.”
— Dick Vitale, ESPN Broadcaster
What’s next
Vitale will undergo additional testing, including a biopsy, to determine the next steps in his ongoing health journey.
The takeaway
Dick Vitale's openness about his health challenges has made him an inspiration to many, and his continued positivity and determination in the face of adversity is a testament to his character. The basketball community will rally around him as he faces this latest medical hurdle.
