Greg Gumbel, one of the most beloved voices in sports broadcasting, has passed away at the age of 78. His family shared the news, saying, “Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity.” His remarkable career and unwavering values leave behind a legacy that transcends sports and will always be an integral part of college basketball.
Gumbel’s path to broadcasting wasn’t conventional however. While working in sales in Detroit, his brother Bryant urged him to audition for a sportscaster position at an NBC affiliate in Chicago. Gumbel got the job, returning to his hometown to support his family after his father’s passing. Bryant, a legendary journalist of his own hosted Real Sports which became a staple on HBO. Though their father never saw his sons’ success, Greg credited him with shaping his character and approach to life.
A statement from the family of Greg Gumbel pic.twitter.com/oAkSrW8EtJ
— CBS Sports PR (@CBSSportsGang) December 27, 2024
“Our dad taught us to listen carefully, think intelligently, and speak clearly,” Gumbel once said. “He emphasized honesty, perseverance, and doing the right thing, values that guided my entire career.”…