A Tribute to Dickie V

ESPN analyst and commentator Dick Vitale recently underwent surgery to treat ulcers on his left vocal cord. Unfortunately, he is not expected to return to the booth until sometime in February. His passion and enjoyment for the game will be missed by many, as Vitale has always been considered a superb commentator.

"College basketball fans will miss Dick's enthusiasm in the coming weeks. But we are delighted to learn his surgery was a success and we all wish him a speedy recovery," ESPN president George Bodenheimer said in a statement.

What’s amazing is that Vitale has never missed any of his assignments since he joined the ESPN crew in 1979. Dr. Steven Zeitels of Massachusetts General Hospital performed the surgery for Vitale, who has prospered throughout his professional career both as a coach and an analyst.

"The past six weeks have been very emotional [for] me and for my family as we've visited some of the most outstanding throat specialists," Vitale said in a letter posted on ESPN.com. "Visiting college campuses and interacting with the fans has kept me so young and energized. I can't wait to get back out there, having a blast with all of you, who are so vital to our game."

As a youngster, Vitale always wanted to become a teacher, and his wish came true when he was employed by Mark Twain Elementary School in Garfield, New Jersey in 1963. He eventually decided that his passion was for basketball, and as a result he pursued a career as a coach. From 1970 to 1972 Vitale served as the assistant coach for Rutgers University alongside head coach Raymond Jones. He would go on to become the head coach of the University of Detroit in 1973. When it became evident that “Dickie V” possessed a comprehensive knowledge of the game, he was named head coach of the Detroit Pistons for the 1978-1979 season, where he compiled a 30-52 record.

Today, Vitale is sometimes referred to as “Dickie V,” “Quickie Dickie,” and “Mr. College Basketball.” He is known to favor the ACC teams, particularly the Duke Blue Devils and Coach Mike Krzyzewski. Some have even joked around, calling him “Duke Vitale.” At times, he will even refer to Duke when they are not even playing.

"You can't get Dick Vitale to say 15 words without Duke coming out of his mouth,” stated Temple University’s head coach John Chaney.

While some consider his style of broadcasting obnoxious, there is no doubt that he has a devout passion for the game. This year marks his 28th season with ESPN, and he is currently contracted through 2013. It should be noted that he has also made significant contributions to the V Foundation, a cancer research organization in honor of Jim Valvano. College basketball fans will definitely miss Vitale’s presence behind the booth while he is healing form surgery.