Dick Vitale

Date of Birth: June 9, 1939

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: [Leave blank]

Biography

Dick Vitale, born Richard John Vitale on June 9, 1939, in Passaic, New Jersey, is an American basketball sportscaster, author, and former head coach. Vitale is best known for his enthusiastic and colorful commentary style, particularly in college basketball. He began his coaching career at East Rutherford High School in New Jersey before moving on to the collegiate level, where he served as an assistant coach at Rutgers University and later as the head coach at the University of Detroit. He also had a brief stint as the head coach of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons. In 1979, Vitale joined ESPN for its first major NCAA basketball game broadcast, marking the beginning of a long and storied career with the network. His distinctive voice, catchphrases like “Awesome, baby!” and “Diaper Dandy,” and his infectious passion for the game made him a beloved figure among basketball fans. Over the years, Vitale has also contributed to various charitable causes, focusing particularly on cancer research.

5 Interesting Facts about Dick Vitale

1. Vitale’s first coaching job was at East Rutherford High School in New Jersey, where he led the team to two state championships.

2. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2008.

3. Vitale is a cancer survivor and has been a vocal advocate for cancer research, raising millions through his annual Dick Vitale Gala.

4. He authored several books, including his autobiography “Living a Dream” and motivational books like “Getting a W in the Game of Life.”

5. Vitale was awarded the Sports Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Dick Vitale

1. “It’s awesome, baby, with a capital ‘A’!”

2. “You can’t be serious, Mr. Official!”

3. “I’m living a dream. I never thought I’d be doing this for a living.”

4. “The game of life is more important than the game of basketball.”

5. “My life is basketball, and basketball is my life.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Dick Vitale’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.

Children

Dick Vitale and his wife Lorraine have two daughters: Terri and Sherri. Both daughters have pursued successful careers and have families of their own, making Vitale a proud grandfather.