Finally, some news about someone keeping their job at ESPN. On Monday, it was reported that Dick Vitale and ESPN had come to terms on an agreement that will keep the legendary analyst through the year 2020.
Vitale was a member of the ESPN team when it first launched in 1979-80. ESPN announced the extension themselves earlier today.
The deal adds an additional year to the extension that was announced last June. Vitale was pleased that an agreement was reached, and is happy to be staying with the network.
“ESPN has been my second family. Everyone knows my love for my wife, kids and grandkids, but ESPN has also been a vital part of my life for 38 plus years,” Vitale said. “I’m beyond thrilled about this new contract – it’s pure joy and jubilation for me and my family.”
Vitale careers is as storied as they come. He has been the voice for countless memorable moments throughout the networks history. He called ESPN’s first-ever major NCAA basketball game, Wisconsin at DePaul on Dec. 5, 1979. Since then, he has called thousands more, and has become a central fixture in college basketball coverage.
Vitale enjoyed a successful college basketball coaching career before joining the network in 1979. He was the head coach of the Detroit Pistons in 1978, the last job he would hold as a head coach. Since then, he has secured his place in the canon of college basketball with unforgettable Vitale-isms.
Good for him and good for ESPN. Keeping Vitale around was the right move.
Can’t get enough of Campus Sports? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with the latest news and exclusive giveaways!
