The sports world suffered a great loss. CBS Sports anchor and commentator, Greg Gumbel, took his last breath at the age of 78 after a long battle with cancer. It was heartbreaking news for everyone who has known the legend. It was as if just a few years ago, the broadcasting legend celebrated the completion of 50 years in his career. The TNT cast who had a chance to sit with the legend once expressed reflected on the memory.

During a recent segment of Inside the NBA, Charles Barkley shared, “You know, Ernie, when you meet legends… And Greg’s been a legend for 50 years. And they’re just as nice as you hoped and thought they would be. I’m going to miss his jokes.” 

Paying homage to the legend, Barkley said, “He was just a kind, honorable man I’ve known his brother Brian a long time but getting to know him just because of man when I got that text last week man, it just kind of ruined my new year going into the new year man and just rest in peace Greg and thank you for being the consummate pro and gentleman.”

His wife Marcy Gumbel and daughter, Michelle Gumbel, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news with their fans and followers. “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel. He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity,” the statement read. 

Many have poured their hearts out, sending condolences to the family. Charles Barkley and the cast recounted how Gumbel made March Madness more elevated and interesting to them. It has been nearly 13 years since the TNT crew started working with him after the team joined the NCAA Tournament broadcast team in 2011. However, for Kenny Smith, the first day working with the legend was more memorable.

“The most memorable day, honestly, for me was the first, because just like I would imagine if someone sits on a set and you open the show and when he opened it up, I got even I’m getting now I got chills hearing his voice,” Smith said.

Gumbel had been a cornerstone of CBS’ college basketball coverage. Born in New Orleans, he became well-known among fans after his appearance on NBC’s Today Show.

Ernie Johnson pays homage to Greg Gumbel 

In 2023, CBS extended its deal with Gumbel, allowing the legend to step away from NFL coverage while remaining a part of basketball coverage. However, he stayed away from March Madness last year because of family health issues.

Ernie Johnson, who was tasked with most of the coverage during his absence, took to social media to send his condolences. “The news that Greg Gumbel has passed is just heartbreaking. Was an honor to share the March Madness desk with him. A pro’s pro and a gentleman of the highest order,” the Inside the NBA host wrote.

After a stint in 1988, Gumbel returned to CBS and served as the lead announcer for the NFL on CBS for six years, from 1998 to 2003. He was the host of “The NFL Today” for two seasons and hosted “Inside the NFL” on SHOWTIME in 2014. Lakers legend Magic Johnson also took to social media and wrote, “I’m saddened to hear about the passing of longtime and legendary broadcaster and friend Greg Gumbel. Greg was an African-American pioneer.”

His illustrious career boasts Emmy Award honors and more. The legend and his contributions will be forever remembered!