Dick Vitale is a staple of ESPN. Not just the network’s college basketball coverage, but a staple of the network itself. He is being recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Sports at the 40th Annual Sports Emmy Awards ceremony.
“Dick Vitale is one of the most unique, effusive and recognizable voices in sports broadcasting today,” said Adam Sharp, President and CEO of the NATAS. “His knowledge, enthusiasm and love of the game is captured in every comment, call and catchphrase he creates.”
Sharp also recognized Vitale as “a master behind the microphone and a great humanitarian” in a press release.
Vitale responded by saying that the honor left him uncharacteristically speechless. “I’m in absolute awe, going from a jock in the locker room to 40 years and counting at ESPN to now being in the same group as many people I’ve idolized as a fan is incredible. I’ll simply say I’m so blessed and lucky and owe it all to my family and my second family at ESPN.”
The 40th Annual Sports Emmys will be handed out at a ceremony on Monday, May 20 at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City.
