Dick Vitale overcome with emotion on return to commentary
By Scott Rogust
Dick Vitale made his return to commentary during his cancer battle, and he was overcome with emotion.
Last week, ESPN announced that the legendary Dick Vitale would make his return to the commentary table for the 2021-22 season, with his first game on the call being No. 1 Gonzaga against No. 2 UCLA. Vitale, who is battling lymphoma, received clearance from his doctors to make his return to the broadcast.
Prior to tip-off on Tuesday night, when introduced by play-by-play commentator Dave O’Brien, Vitale was overcome with emotion. He thanked everyone who sent positive messages his way during his cancer battle.
Fans and members of the media reacted and congratulated Vitale on making his return to the booth.
Fans, media react to Dick Vitale’s return to commentary
https://twitter.com/ZACHPHH/status/1463345777808396291
Vitale was not only introduced to the viewing audience at home, but also on the video board of T-Mobile Arena. The fans in attendance gave him a standing ovation.
The legendary commentator brought his trademark enthusiasm in the early portion of the first half, with Gonzaga taking a sizable lead over UCLA.
Back on Oct. 12, Vitale announced that he had been diagnosed with lymphoma. He has since began his six months of chemotherapy treatment. After being discharged from the hospital, Vitale was cleared to make his return to doing what he loves best — calling college basketball games in his 43rd season with ESPN.
Good to have you back on the call, Dickie V.
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