Don’t worry basketball fans, the legendary Dick Vitale isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon.
The Hall of Fame basketball analyst has signed a contract extension with ESPN through the 2020-21 season and will continue his work as a game analyst on key matchups each week during the regular season, as well as Champ Week, according to an official press release from ESPN.
Vitale, who joined ESPN during the 1979-80 season, will enter his 40th season with ESPN this year.
“ESPN has been family to me and I am honored that they want me to continue being a contributor on our college basketball team,” Vitale said. “ESPN has provided me a forum that has turned my dreams to reality. I feel young at heart. I said once, and I will say it again – my goal is to be the first in broadcasting to open a hoops game at 100 years old saying “This is Awesome, Baby!’ with a capital A.”
“Dick’s commitment and passion towards college basketball and towards ESPN for the past 39 years has been unmatched,” said Lee Fitting, ESPN vice president of college sports. “It’s tough to imagine that there has been a greater ambassador for the game of college basketball, and we are thrilled to have Dick on our air for years to come.”