NCAA Tournament: Tributes Pour In for Legendary Sportscaster Greg Gumbel

NEW YORK — The NCAA Tournament kicks off against the backdrop of mourning for legendary sportscaster Greg Gumbel, who passed away at the age of 78 after a battle with cancer. Known for his calming presence, Gumbel was a staple of March Madness, guiding viewers through thrilling moments from Selection Sunday to the iconic close of ‘One Shining Moment.’

Colleagues and fans alike remember Gumbel not just for his impressive broadcasting career, which spanned over 25 years, but also for his charismatic and soothing demeanor. “With certain shows, it’s all about, ‘let’s add a bunch of bells and whistles,’ but on Selection Sunday, all you needed was Greg Gumbel and a bracket,” said Ernie Johnson, a longtime colleague on CBS.

This tournament marks the first time basketball enthusiasts will experience March Madness without Gumbel at the helm, as he missed last year’s festivities for undisclosed reasons that were later revealed to be health-related. His absence casts a significant shadow over this year’s event.

Throughout his career, Gumbel epitomized professionalism and warmth, earning praise from sports legends like Charles Barkley, who stated, “When you can get Greg Gumbel to laugh, that’s when you know you’re having a good day.” Gumbel’s ability to remain composed, especially amidst the chaos of live broadcasting, was unparalleled.

Despite his huge success, Gumbel stayed grounded and maintained a humble persona. Suzanne Smith, CBS Sports’ first female director, recollected, “Greg was always the coolest guy in the room — and he never knew it.” His legacy extends beyond the broadcast booth; he was a trailblazer as the first Black play-by-play announcer at a major sporting event.

Gumbel’s impact on the broadcasting field was significant — he won multiple Emmy Awards and anchored at Olympic Games across two networks. Former CBS Sports President David Berson recalled Gumbel’s humor, stating he had a “huge, special laugh” and an undeniable authenticity that resonated with viewers.

Gumbel was also known for his varied interests outside sports, including a passion for the Rolling Stones, attending over 50 of their concerts, and a notorious disinterest in golf, which he once described as “a stupid game.” He was a devoted family man, relishing cherished moments with his granddaughter, Riley.

As March Madness officially kicks off, those touched by Gumbel’s life and career are grieving the loss of a man who wasn’t just a voice for college basketball, but a mentor, leader, and friend. “I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to grow up watching my dad all these years,” his daughter Michelle shared. “I will greatly miss his send-offs after calling the game, saying goodnight with a heartfelt, ‘Goodbye and so long.’”