Legendary Announcer Dick Vitale Shared Update After Cancer Diagnosis
ESPN announcer Dick Vitale shocked the basketball world last week when he confirmed that he has melanoma, a form of skin cancer, in his lungs and liver.
This is not the first time the 86-year-old broadcaster has battled such a deadly disease, as he has already been diagnosed with cancer four times. Although his friends and fans were saddened by the news, his spirits remain high, and he continues covering the NCAA March Madness.
"I've beaten melanoma. I've beaten lymphoma. I've beaten vocal cord cancer. I've beaten lymph node cancer," Vitale said in a statement.
"I'm four-for-four, and I'm fully confident I'm going to make it five-for-five."
His first cancer diagnosis was in 2021 when a melanoma was detected in his body although. He immediately underwent treatment for it. Two months after, he was diagnosed with a pre-cancerous dysplasia and ulcerous lesions. The Seton Hall standout was declared cancer free by 2022.
His battles and victories against cancer are an inspiration to many, and he has been bringing people along on his journey through constant updates on social media. He was all smiles in his latest post as he shared the medical process involved in his treatment.
Today was filled with medical exams &
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) April 27, 2026
blood work. My oncologist Dr Brown has given me dates for next 2 Immunotherapy treatments - next treatment will be after my Gala this week .May 5 & the next treatment is May 19-He said before other dates he wants to see what side effects I… pic.twitter.com/RnOgwOCqi6
He also remains committed to extending a helping hand as he spearheads a donation drive for people going through the same ordeal.
Although his spirits remain high, Vitale has also been honest about the hard part of battling cancer. He said in another social media post that although he is physically feeling terrific, the mental aspect is what makes things difficult. He is aware that other cancer patients go through the same ordeal and is therefore requesting donations through his charity at http://dickvitale.com/.
This is a very special week for me as we are so excited about our annual Gala on Friday ! Will raise MILLIONS for Pediatric Cancer Research . Start today with several medical checkups which is part of the routine in battling cancer .
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) April 27, 2026
Vitale has been an inspiration throughout his broadcasting career, which spans five decades. Known for his catchphrases, including "This is awesome, baby!", the legendary announcer has become a staple of NCAA tournaments. He was inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
The legendary announcer is set to hold the 21st edition of the Dick Vitale Gala on May 1 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Sarasota, Florida. The event has raised $105 million and has helped 50,000 families.
Related: Dick Vitale Makes Request After Sharing Concerning Health Update
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This story was originally published April 27, 2026 at 9:02 PM.