Magic Johnson pays heartfelt tribute to Greg Gumbel following his death at 78

The sports world mourned the loss of a broadcasting legend on Friday with the death of beloved commentator Greg Gumbel, his family announced. Gumbel, aged 78, was battling cancer.

Gumbel was a trailblazer in the broadcasting industry, covering college basketball, March Madness, the NFL and the Super Bowl. Upon hearing of his passing, LA Lakers legend and five-time NBA Champion Magic Johnson took to X/Twitter to share his condolences and honor Greg Gumbel.

"I'm saddened to hear about the passing of longtime and legendary broadcaster and friend Greg Gumbel. Greg was an African-American pioneer. He spent over 50 years in sports broadcasting - as one of the first studio hosts and in the broadcast booth for the NFL, March Madness, and more," Johnson wrote.

"Cookie and I are praying for his wife Marcy, daughter Michelle, brother Bryant, and the entire Gumbel family during this difficult time," he added.

Gumbel leaves a storied legacy as one of the greatest commentators of all time, with 50 years in the industry, and became the first Black broadcaster to call a major sports championship upon calling Super Bowl XXXV in 2000.

Broadcasters around sports world mourn Greg Gumbel

Along with NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, sports broadcasters around the industry honored and mourned Greg Gumbel with posts and tributes on X. Broadcasters and analysts such as Ryan Clark, Trey Wingo and Mark Titus each shared heartfelt messages honoring the late Greg Gumbel.

Trey Wingo pointed out Gumbel's immense poise and effortless talent:

"So sad to hear about the passing of Greg Gumbel. Whether hosting or calling games, Greg did it with passion, poise and made it look effortless. One of the best ever RIP," Wingo wrote.

"Rest in Heaven to a legend," Clark posted.

Mark Titus honored Greg Gumbel by crediting his work with the March Madness Sunday Selection:

"When you think of Selection Sunday, you think of Greg Gumbel," Titus said.

What is your favorite Greg Gumbel memory or moment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.