One of the most recognizable voices in American sports went silent this week. Greg Gumbel died at age 78 after being diagnosed with cancer, ending a broadcast career that spanned more than five decades.
Gumbel was prolific, covering major events across the spectrum. He was a tireless worker with a voice like a warm cup of tea. Being welcomed to a kickoff, tipoff or pre-game panel created a familiar, calming presence against the backdrop of pro and college sports. He didn’t rely on gimmicks; he simply learned as much as he possibly could about whatever he covered and communicated it to wide ranging audiences as effectively as possible.
His loss leaves a sizable hole in the sporting world. On Sunday, two days after his passing, the network where he spent the bulk of his career paid tribute to a man who became a sports icon despite never taking the field, ice or hardwood.
The NFL Today’s tribute real showcased just how versatile Gumbel was as a broadcaster. He covered major events across the spectrum, from pro football on Sundays to college basketball each March to the Olympics. He was the first black man to call a Super Bowl’s national broadcast. He was the alpha and omega of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, unveiling brackets on Selection Sunday and drawing the curtain shut after the confetti had fallen on the national champion by introducing One Shining Moment.
CBS’s montage was followed by The NFL Today’s panel sharing their memories of Gumbel. Bill Cowher talked about meeting the play-by-play legend before his first Super Bowl appearance with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Nate Burleson relayed a story about Gumbel reaching out to champion his career, unsolicited, just to help a young media pro thrive. Matt Ryan reflected on how Gumbel’s seeming omnipresence when it came to big games made him feel like a friend.
The NFL Today wasn’t the only show to pay homage to Gumbel before kickoff. Terry Bradshaw said he owed “his pregame career” to Gumbel’s guidance over at Fox NFL Sunday.
“Rest in peace, Greg Gumbel. I miss you, buddy.”
Terry Bradshaw remembers the legendary broadcaster and the impact he had on his life. pic.twitter.com/R7zZ2QSiK1
Gumbel was a legend. Sunday’s tributes helped put in focus just how wide his influence spread — and how many people he helped and inspired along the way.
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