“Like all who knew and loved him, I too am saddened by his death": CBB analyst reacts as Greg Gumbel dies after battle with cancer

Renowned broadcaster Greg Gumbel died earlier this week at the age of 78 following his battle with cancer. With the lasting impact he has made, there has been a plethora of industry heavyweights who have poured out their tributes, including college basketball analyst Clark Kellogg.

"Like all who knew and loved him, I too am saddened by his death, yet also so very grateful to have known him in my life. What a gift to be touched by such a good man and partner," Kellogg said.

Before becoming a member of the media, Kellogg played college basketball at Ohio State from 1979 to 1982. He played five years for the Indiana Pacers from 1982 to 1987. In that span, he was named to the All-Rookie First Team.

Despite his short stint in the league, Kellogg found his calling as a basketball analyst. He joined ESPN as a resident anchor in 1989. Eventually, CBS Sports would tap him in 1993 to join their roster of sports broadcasters.

Working his way up through being assigned to cover college basketball, Kellogg joined Gumbel in 1997 for his first taste of March Madness broadcasting.

Clark Kellogg playing for Ohio State. - Source: Malcolm Emmons, Imagn

Kellogg and Gumbel shared covering duties on multiple occasions. The duo was the go-to broadcasterS for March Madness annually. It was a surprise to many to see Kellogg cover the most exciting time in college basketball alone last season.

In due time, hopefully, Kellogg can keep Gumbel's spirit alive in his succeeding NCAA basketball coverages.

Clark Kellogg shares core values his friendship with Greg Gumbel stood on

Later in his statement, Craig Kellogg described his 25-year friendship with Greg Gumbel.

"Friendship, goodness, humor, partnership, professionalism and wisdom. He was excellent in his work and exemplary in his caring and character,” he said.

Aside from Kellogg, many other respected members of the media paid tribute, including CBS Sports president and CEO David Berson, NFL analyst James Brown, and younger brother Bryant Gumbel, who is also a sports pundit.