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On Friday, news broke that longtime CBS Sports broadcaster Greg Gumbel died at the age of 78. Gumbel celebrated 50 years in the broadcasting industry in 2022 and was renowned for his play-by-play commentary in various sports including football and basketball.
On Friday, former Heisman winner Robert Griffin III paid tribute to him in a lengthy post on X including an anecdote from earlier in his career.
"Rest in Peace to the Legend Greg Gumbel. He honored me with this picture at the Sports Emmys after graciously spending 20 mins giving me advice and encouragement on navigating the broadcast industry," Griffin wrote. "I cherished this moment more than he ever imagined. Mr. Gumbel was a one-of-a-kind broadcaster and man.
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"A hero to my family being from the same city of New Orleans. When my family saw him on TV, he made them believe they could make it too. Mr. Gumbel was a trailblazer in sports media and we are all indebted to him for it. Prayers up to Greg Gumbel’s family and loved ones. Rest In Peace Mr. Gumbel, you earned it."
CBS Sports pays tribute to Greg Gumbel
After news of Greg Gumbel's death broke, CBS Sports President and CEO David Berson released a statement paying tribute to him and his career.
"The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel. There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television. He was beloved and respected by those of us who had the honor to call him a friend and colleague," said David Berson. "A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time.
"He was a familiar and welcoming voice for fans across many sports, including the NFL and March Madness, highlighted by the Super Bowl and Final Four," Berson said. "Greg broke barriers and set the standard for others to follow. It is an extremely sad day for all of us at CBS Sports and the entire sports community."
Gumbel worked at CBS Sports since 1989 hosting the popular "The NFL Today" between 1990 and 1993 alongside co-host Terry Bradshaw. He had several notable moments in his career including Super Bowl XXVI in 1992, anchoring the 1994 Olympic Winter Games and covering the Daytona International Speedway in 1999.
He was also involved in major sporting events like March Madness, the College World Series and Major League Baseball as a play-by-play announcer.
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