One of the most recognizable voices in all of sports is no longer with us as Greg Gumbel, the legendary CBS Sports broadcaster and staple of the network’s NCAA Tournament coverage has passed away after a battle with cancer.
He was 78 years old. Gumbel’s wife Marcy and daughter Michelle released a statement through CBS Sports, revealing the news that he’d passed.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel,” they wrote. “He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity. He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcast industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten.
“Greg’s memory will forever be treasured by his family, dearest friends, colleagues, and all who loved him.”
Gumbel was a fixture in March Madness coverage and the host of the tournament’s Selection Show every spring. Last year, Gumbel missed the tournament for “family health issues” according to The Athletic.
Gumbel’s broadcasting career at CBS was served over two stints, starting with a five-year stint from 1988-1993 and then from 1998-2024. In addition to his NCAA Tournament coverage, Gumbel called NFL games from 2006 until 2022.
In 2023, Gumbel re-signed with CBS but dropped the NFL coverage and focused on his NCAA Tournament coverage.
“The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel,” David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, said in a statement released by the network. “There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television. He was beloved and respected by those of us who had the honor to call him a friend and colleague.”
