LeBron James drops heartfelt reaction to commentator Dick Vitale's latest cancer update

Legendary ESPN college basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale provided fans with another encouraging cancer update amid his quest to return to the announcer's booth. Afterward, LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James commended Vitale in a heartfelt social media message.

Vitale has battled several forms of cancer over the last few years, beginning with melanoma and lymphoma in 2021. Two years later, he announced that he had been diagnosed with vocal cord cancer.

Most recently, the sportscasting icon had surgery to remove a cancerous lymph node in July, a month after it was discovered.

In December, Vitale shared on X/Twitter that he was cancer-free, sparking excitement surrounding his potential return to calling games for the first time since 2022.

On Wednesday, he took another step toward his goal. According to the Hall of Fame broadcaster, his doctor pronounced his vocal cords cancer-free at his latest checkup, and he has been cleared to return to work.

"Just had (a) scope of my vocal cords, and I was very emotional with the great report by Dr. Zeitels," Vitale wrote. "He said the vocal cords are cancer-free and he feels I can return to my love of being courtside for ESPN."

Shortly after, James wholesomely reacted to the news on X, underscoring Dick Vitale's impact on college basketball.

"College hoops ain't the same without Dicky V calling them!" James wrote, preceded by a series of raising hands emojis.

While James never attended college, Vitale covered his first nationally televised high school matchup at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in 2002.

The 20-time All-Star has long been an outspoken fan of Vitale's work, shouting him out on multiple occasions. That includes in 2017 when James thanked the announcing veteran for his steadfast support throughout his NBA career.

"Dicky V, you already know, man. You're my man, you've always supported me, and you are awesome with a capital A, baby," James said.

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Dick Vitale hopes to make announcing comeback ASAP

Per Yahoo Sports, following Dick Vitale's latest cancer update, he outlined his timeline to return to calling games.

Vitale expressed optimism that he could be on the sideline "as early as later this month." He added that he's been "building up his voice" in preparation for his comeback.

The 85-year-old, known for his enthusiastic commentary and unique catchphrases, has been commentating for ESPN since 1979, the company's first year of broadcasting. Thus, Vitale's first game back should be an emotional moment for college basketball fans.

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