Greg Gumbel, longtime NFL on CBS and March Madness broadcaster, dies at 78

Posted by Admin December 27, 2024 NFL

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Greg Gumbel, who served as an NFL broadcaster and March Madness host for CBS, has died after a battle with cancer, his family announced Friday. He was 78 years old.

Gumbel initially joined CBS in 1988 as a part-time announcer and later hosted The NFL Today from 1990-93. He then left the network to join NBC in 1994 after CBS lost the rights to the NFL and MLB, but returned in 1998 following Super Bowl XXXII. That’s when he became the host for the NCAA Tournament, anchoring March Madness coverage.

Gumbel remained in that role as March Madness host while also serving as a play-by-play broadcaster for NFL games. He missed the 2024 NCAA Tournament due to family health issues, meaning the 2023 tournament marked his final March Madness on the desk.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel,” his family said in a statement released by CBS Sports Friday afternoon. “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.

“He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcasting industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten. Greg’s memory will forever be treasured by his family, dearest friends, colleagues and all who loved him.”

Gumbel began his career in Chicago at WMAQ-TV in 1973 before joining ESPN in 1979 as a reporter and anchor while also doing play-by-play. He then spent a year with MSG covering the New York Yankees in 1988 before latching on at CBS as a college basketball play-by-play broadcaster in 1989. He added The NFL Today in 1990.

Gumbel covered multiple notable events during his career, including the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics. He also served as the No. 2 play-by-play broadcaster for MLB and NBA games at NBC, and he called the College World Series for CBS from 1990-94 and 2000-02. Gumbel also called Super Bowl XXXV and XXXVIII for CBS before swapping roles with Jim Nantz.

Gumbel was a staple of CBS’ Selection Sunday shows as the host, announcing each team with its respective seed in the bracket. Ernie Johnson took his seat in 2024.