Dick Vitale Voted into Basketball Hall of Fame

By admin - Posted on April 10th, 2008

April 7, 2008 -- Dick Vitale, in his 29th season as an ESPN college basketball analyst, was selected for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2008 as a contributor to the sport. The announcement was made today in San Antonio, site of the NCAA Final Four. Hall of Fame contributors are described as those who have made significant contributions to the game and its growth.

The Enshrinement Ceremonies will be held at the Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. September 4-6.

“Goosebumps ran through my body when I received the call,” said Vitale. “I am in awe, absolute awe, of the people who have been enshrined. I am honored to be included with those greats who have been so much a part of my life. I wish my mom and dad – my greatest inspiration -- were here to experience this honor with me. They would be so proud. Basketball has given me a life that has exceeded any dream I ever had. This tremendous honor is to be shared with my colleagues who have meant so much to me over three decades at ESPN and the coaching career that preceded it.”

Vitale, who missed two months this season as a result of vocal cord surgery on December 18, returned Feb. 6 to call Duke at North Carolina. Prior to that, Vitale had never missed a game in his 29 seasons at ESPN.

Vitale, a former high school, college and professional basketball coach, has become one of the most well-known commentators in all of sports television. His enthusiasm, connection with fans and knowledge of the game have helped promote and grow the sport, and he has played a pivotal role in the development of the concept of “March Madness.” He’s also been an outspoken advocate for the sport, unafraid to push for reform when appropriate and has been recognized with numerous honors and awards.

VITALE BIO AND PHOTO

For a document outlining Vitale’s career accomplishments and additional biographical information, plus a downloadable Vitale photo (username: vitale; password: vitale), click on the attached link:

http://www.espnmediazone.com/DickVitale.htm

Additional quotes from colleagues are below.

George Bodenheimer, President, ESPN, Inc. and ABC Sports: "This prestigious honor is reserved for the most influential contributors whose names and work are part of the sport's fabric. Dick Vitale is the game's most passionate ambassador and has dramatically impacted its success and popularity. Dick's countless ESPN supporters and legions of fans will share in his excitement as he takes his rightful place alongside the sport's legends."

Digger Phelps, ESPN college basketball analyst: “No one has contributed more to college basketball than Dick Vitale. A lot of us today as analysts and play-by-play announcers owe our television careers to Dick Vitale who planted the groundwork for this dream to become a reality.”

Bob Knight, Hall of Fame coach and ESPN college basketball analyst: ”This should've happened a long time ago. It's something most deserving. No one has contributed more to college basketball than Dick Vitale.”

Howie Schwab, ESPN coordinating producer, studio production and statistical researcher for Vitale: “Dick's passion and love for the game of basketball has been clear during his career at ESPN and ABC. He has been an ambassador for the sport of college basketball and he’s truly deserving of this ultimate honor.”

Bob Ley, Outside the Lines host and SportsCenter anchor; was studio anchor with Vitale in the 1980s: "I treasure the many years I worked long hours, side-by-side, with Dick as his love and enthusiasm for college basketball became a fixture in America's living room. The game has no greater champion or finer person associated with it."

Dan Shulman, ESPN college basketball commentator; works with Vitale including on Saturday Primetime telecast: “I am thrilled Dick has gotten into the Hall of Fame. He is synonymous with college basketball. His passion for the sport is one of the reasons it is so popular today.”

Source: ESPN

Bookmark/Search this post with: