Sports broadcaster Greg Gumbel, 78, dies of cancer

Greg Gumbel, a CBS Sports veteran who spent more than 50 years in sports broadcasting, has died of cancer at age 78, his family said Friday.

“He passed away peacefully and surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer,” his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle said in a joint statement obtained by CBS Sports. “Greg approached his illness the way you would expect him to: with stoicism, grace and positivity.

“He leaves a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication for over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcasting industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten.”

Gumbel spent the majority of his career at CBS Sports and was known for his play-by-play and studio work on the NFL and college basketball, among others. He also served as anchor for ESPN’s “SportsCenter” during his time with the network from 1979 to 1988 and served as a play-by-play announcer and studio host for NBC Sports in the mid-1990s.

“Greg’s memory will forever be treasured by his family, dearest friends, colleagues and all who loved him,” the statement said.