Filed under: Media Watch, Sports Business and Media
Dick Vitale, college basketball's most identifiable television analyst as well as its biggest cheerleader, will remain with ESPN for another four years, the company announced Wednesday.Vitale, who has been with the Worldwide Leader since shortly after it launched in September 1979, will stay with the company through the 2014-15 season, when he will be 75.
In a statement issued through the company, Vitale said, "There is nothing greater than walking into an arena and feeling the excitement and energy of a big-time college basketball game.
"I can't thank ESPN enough for allowing me to be a kid at heart by giving me the opportunity to sit courtside for games I would pay top dollar to see. I'm living a dream. I've been extremely blessed to work with so many beautiful people and to talk about the game I love."
Said Norby Williamson, ESPN's executive vice president for production: "Simply put, Dick Vitale is college basketball. He embodies all the great characteristics of the sport he loves and has entertained millions with his unmatched passion and knowledge for more than 30 years. Dick's connection with fans of all ages is stronger than it's ever been and we're thrilled he will continue for years to come."
Vitale, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008, is a tireless champion of college basketball, but he has drawn criticism for being so close to the sport that he rarely criticizes the game or its participants. In recent seasons, he has been derisively nicknamed "Dukie V," over the perception that he overly praises Duke and its coach, Mike Krzyzewski.
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Source: http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2011/01/12/dick-vitale-espn-extension/
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