NEW YORK – Greg Gumbel, a beloved figure in sports broadcasting, died on Friday at the age of 78 from cancer. His family released a statement through CBS, remembering the influential broadcaster’s incredible career and his lasting impact on the sports industry.

Gumbel’s wife, Marcy, and his daughter, Michelle, issued the statement, praising his dedication to more than 50 years in sports broadcasting. They emphasized how his voice would continue to resonate with sports fans globally.

A notable absence from the NCAA Tournament in March 2023 was his final public indication of battling cancer. Prior to this, Gumbel had returned to CBS in 1998 and signed an extension in 2022 to continue his role as the studio host for college basketball while reducing his involvement with NFL announcing.

One of Gumbel’s most significant achievements came in 2001 when he announced Super Bowl XXXV, making him the first African-American to call the play-by-play of a major sports championship in the United States.

David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, highlighted Gumbel’s pioneering role in breaking barriers and setting standards for future broadcasters. Berson described Gumbel as a “tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller who led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time.”

Gumbel had a notable dual affiliation with CBS and NBC. He initially left CBS in 1994 when NBC lost the football broadcast rights but returned in 1998 when the network regained the contract.

During his time at CBS, Gumbel hosted CBS’ coverage of the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics and broadcast Major League Baseball games. He was responsible for hosting the World Figure Skating Championships in 1995 and covering the 1996 Olympic Summer Games in Atlanta.

Despite his versatility, Gumbel was best known for his work in football and basketball. He hosted “The NFL Today” on CBS from 1990 to 1993 and again in 2004. He also took up the role of CBS’ lead play-by-play announcer from 1998 to 2003, calling games including Super Bowl XXXV and XXXVIII.

Gumbel made a return to the NFL booth in 2005, ending his role after the 2022 NFL season.

Over the span of his illustrious career, Gumbel earned multiple local Emmy Awards and the 2007 Pat Summerall Award for excellence in sports broadcasting.

Beyond his work in sports broadcasting, Gumbel was a significant supporter of慈善 causes. He served on the board of trustees for the March of Dimes for 30 years and was also a member of the Sports Council for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for 16 years.

Greg Gumbel’s career left an indelible mark on the world of sports broadcasting. His pioneering achievements and contributions have inspired countless broadcasters who followed in his footsteps. Gumbel’s voice, a beloved part of the sports media landscape, will forever be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.

The loss of Greg Gumbel is a significant blow to the sports broadcasting community. His dedication, passion, and pioneering work will continue to influence the industry for generations to come. We honor his legacy and express our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans worldwide.