In 2022, Greg Gumbel completed 50 years in broadcasting. Last year, CBS agreed on an extension that allowed him to continue hosting college basketball games, as he stepped back from his NFL duties. At the beginning of the year, Gumbel missed his first NCAA tournament since 1997 due to reported health issues. Earlier today, the family confirmed that the broadcaster fought a “courageous battle with cancer” and passed away peacefully at the age of 78. Naturally, the basketball community was shocked and legends like Magic Johnson, Matt Barnes, and others shared their thoughts.

“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,” Magic Johnson wrote on X.

Johnson further added that he prayed for the family during the tough times. “Cookie and I are praying for his wife Marcy, daughter Michelle, brother Bryant, and the entire Gumbel family during this difficult time. 🙏🏾.”

After years of play-by-play duties in New York Knicks basketball and New York Yankees baseball for the Madison Square Garden Network, Greg Gumbel joined CBS in 1989. Previously, he worked for ESPN and WMAQ-TV Chicago, where he won two local Emmys.

In 2001, during his stint at CBS for Super Bowl XXXV, he became the first Black announcer in the U.S. to call play-by-play of a major sports championship. That’s why the President and CEO of CBS Sports hailed Greg Gumbel for breaking barriers. David Berson also appreciated Gumble for setting the standards in the industry and his connection with sports fans. That’s not the only two sports he covered during his illustrious career.

Apart from Magic Johnson, other players pay respect to Greg Gumbel

Apart from his roles in the NFL and college basketball, CBS entrusted Greg Gumbel with more opportunities. For the coverage of the 1992 Olympic Winter Games, did a stint as co-anchor for CBS Sports. In the 1994 Olympic Winter Games, he worked as a Primetime anchor. He was also the host of “Speedweeks,” starting from Daytona International Speedway in 1999. That’s why even the former NBA Champion Matt Barnes shared, “RIP To A Legend” on his Instagram.

His play-by-play duties also extended towards regular-season and post-season Major League Baseball, host of the 1990 All-Star Game at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Chicago native and another voice in the broadcasting world, Eddie A Johnson, also expressed sadness. The former Kansas City legend and currently a voice for the Phoenix Suns wrote, “Legendary for sure. One of the best voices ever. RIP. ❤️.”

Another former champion turned analyst, Kendrick Perkins added, “Greg Gumbel a true Legend!!! Rest in Paradise 👑.” Inside the NBA’s anchor man, Ernie Johnson too stated, “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. 🤟🏻🤟🤟🏾🤟🏽.” 

That’s why sporting legends like Magic Johnson honored Greg Gumbel and prayed for him and his family. Because his work transcended beyond a particular sport and elevated the entire scene of broadcasting.