Breaking News: Greg Gumbel, Legendary CBS Sportscaster, Passes Away at 78

Greg Gumbel, a renowned American sportscaster, died on December 27, 2024, at the age of 78, after a courageous battle with cancer.[1] His family confirmed the news in a statement to CBS News.

Gumbel’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he covered a wide range of sports, including the NFL, college basketball, MLB, NBA, and the Olympics.[2] He was a mainstay at CBS Sports, working as a play-by-play announcer, studio host, and commentator.

One of Gumbel’s most notable achievements was becoming the first African American to call play-by-play in a major American sports championship when he worked on Super Bowl XXXV in 2001.[3]

Gumbel’s peers and colleagues in the sports media industry have paid tribute to his legacy, praising his exceptional broadcasting skills and kindness.[4]

Early Life and Career

Born in New Orleans, Gumbel grew up in a family of modest means. He attended Loras College, where he played baseball.[5] After college, Gumbel worked as a hospital supply salesman before transitioning to a career in sports broadcasting.

Gumbel’s break in the industry came when his brother, Bryant Gumbel, a well-known journalist and broadcaster, informed him about a weekend sportscaster opening at WMAQ-TV in Chicago.[6] He auditioned and landed the job, marking the beginning of his successful broadcasting career.

Notable Career Highlights

• Worked as a play-by-play announcer for CBS’s NFL coverage (1990-2022)
• Called college basketball games for CBS, including the NCAA Tournament
• Served as a studio host for CBS’s NFL and college basketball coverage
• Called MLB games for the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, and NBC
• Worked as an NBA announcer for ESPN, NBC, and CBS
• Covered the Winter Olympics, NASCAR, and the World Figure Skating Championships

Tributes and Legacy

Gumbel’s passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the sports media community. His colleagues and peers have praised his professionalism, kindness, and dedication to his craft.[7]

As a pioneering sportscaster, Gumbel paved the way for future generations of broadcasters. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence the world of sports broadcasting.

References:

[1] CBS News: “Greg Gumbel, legendary CBS sportscaster, dies at 78”
[2] ESPN: “Greg Gumbel, iconic sportscaster, dies at 78”
[3] USA Today: “Greg Gumbel, first African American to call play-by-play in Super Bowl, dies at 78”
[4] Twitter: Tributes from sports media personalities, including Jim Nantz, Mike Tirico, and Ernie Johnson
[5] Loras College: “Greg Gumbel, Class of 1967”
[6] Chicago Tribune: “Greg Gumbel’s broadcasting career took off in Chicago”
[7] Sports Illustrated: “Greg Gumbel, legendary sportscaster, remembered by colleagues and peers”