Legendary sportscaster Dick Vitale reflects on cancer recovery and March Madness: "You know, if you're going to see another day"

Many people treat sports like life and death, but sometimes the things that really matter get put into perspective. This has been the case with legendary sportscaster Dick Vitale during his public battle with cancer.

Vitale is one of the most distinguished and recognizable voices across sports media and will leave an impact on college basketball far deeper than he realizes.

The 83-year-old recently sat down with USA Today to reflect on his battle. He also talked about March Madness, which he confidently referred to as "the best time of the year."

True to character, Vitale refused to let the situation bring him down. He joked about how open this year's tournament is and gave a window into exactly what his cancer experience has been.

Vitale said, per Josh Peter of USA Today:

“Laying in the hospital after you do your chemo, your family leaves, you’re laying there, and thoughts go through your mind – you know, if you’re going to see another day, never mind another basketball game … I felt trapped.

"The love I’ve received has been unreal. I get so much encouragement from my family, and I can’t express to you enough my love for ESPN. It's more than a job for me.''

Dick Vitale's battle with cancer

Vitale was first diagnosed with melanoma in August 2021. He beat the illness in a matter of months but was diagnosed with lymphoma and precancerous dysplasia on his vocal cords in October 2021. He underwent a seven-month treatment plan involving strenuous chemotherapy. He came out on top once again.

The famous announcer stepped away from work for the entirety of last season, but it proved worth it when he became cancer-free. While his top 44 years of work for ESPN may be behind him, Vitale still has plans to be involved in the college basketball scene.

He has agreed to more interviews than his doctor would likely prefer, but he declined to broadcast any of the tournament games. Known for his famous catchphrases and distinctive voice, Vitale will surely be welcomed back when and if he does rejoin the scene.

The broadcasting veteran also fittingly won the Jimmy V Award at the ESPYs earlier this summer. Vitale presented Jim Valvano, his friend, with the Arthur Ashe Courage award just a few months before Valvano passed away due to cancer in 1993. The award presentation was a full-circle moment for Vitale, who has made it clear that he has no intentions of giving up his goal of living to be 100.