Greg Gumbel, the iconic sports broadcaster known for his distinctive voice and deep passion for sports, has sadly passed away at the age of 78. His family announced his death on Friday, revealing that he succumbed after a brave battle with cancer.

In a heartfelt statement, his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle expressed their sorrow, saying, “Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity.” They emphasized that Gumbel leaves behind a remarkable legacy that spans over 50 years in sports broadcasting, firmly establishing himself as a staple voice in both the NCAA men’s basketball tournament and the NFL.

Gumbel's illustrious career was marked by versatility and groundbreaking achievements. As a renowned host during March Madness, he guided fans through Selection Sunday and revealed the NCAA tournament brackets from 1998 until 2023, missing only the 2024 tournament due to a family health concern, marking the first tournament absence since 1997. His voice became a celebrated element of the tournament, making him a beloved figure among basketball fans.

In the broadcasting booth, Gumbel made history by being the first network announcer to both host and provide play-by-play commentary for a Super Bowl, achieving this remarkable feat in Super Bowls 2001 and 2004. He also holds the significant distinction of being the first Black play-by-play announcer in Super Bowl history.

David Berson, CBS Sports President, expressed the profound loss within the CBS Sports family, stating, “There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television.” He referred to Gumbel as a remarkable broadcaster and gifted storyteller, whose influence set the gold standard for sports journalism.

Born on May 3, 1946, in New Orleans, Gumbel grew up in Chicago, where he graduated from Loras College in 1967. His journey into broadcasting began in the 1970s at WMAQ-TV in Chicago after receiving a helpful tip from his brother, Bryant Gumbel, a well-known journalist.

Gumbel's career skyrocketed when he joined ESPN in 1981, where he significantly contributed to "SportsCenter" and the network's NBA coverage during its formative years. His return to CBS in 1998 marked a pivotal moment. Gumbel continued to thrive and serve fans as a lead announcer for CBS’s NFL broadcasts until 2022.

Throughout his extensive career, he also made substantial contributions to NASCAR, college baseball, and figure skating, further showcasing his diverse abilities in sports broadcasting.

Outside of sports, Gumbel dedicated many years to philanthropy, particularly with the March of Dimes and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, underlining his commitment to health and community.

Clark Kellogg, a long-time colleague, remembered Gumbel fondly, reflecting on their partnership during NCAA Tournament coverage. He highlighted Gumbel's professionalism and generosity, noting how his friendship enriched their lives.

With tributes pouring in from across the sports world, Greg Gumbel’s extraordinary impact on sports broadcasting, his unwavering dedication, and his kind spirit will be deeply missed. As fans and colleagues remember him, Gumbel will undoubtedly be celebrated for his incredible achievements and the warmth he brought to the screen. Fans and friends alike will carry his memory and voice with them forever.