Dick Vitale was one of ESPN’S very first hires back in 1979. Since then, Vitale has worked more than 1,000 games and has become not just a broadcasting icon but a cultural icon. Most are aware of Vitale’s hall of fame worthy accomplishments in basketball, but what many don’t know is the incredible string of health challenges he’s endured over the past few years. “It’s been tough,” he told Growing Bolder in the fall of 2022. “But I’ve had so much support. Love and prayers from many caring people really got me through.”