In a statement posted on social media, KNBR talk show host and San Francisco 49ers play-by-play voice Greg Papa has been diagnosed with cancer. Papa made the announcement via a post in which he stated he will be stepping away from his duties at KNBR to focus on his treatment and work toward a full recovery.
Papa noted Greg Silver will continue to host in the daypart of Papa & Silver with a rotation on guest co-hosts to fill in Papa’s absence.
“I want to share some personal news with Bay Area sports fans and my friends and colleagues. I have been diagnosed with cancer and am undergoing treatment,” wrote Papa. “Thanks to everyone for your prayers and good wishes as I begin this fight.”
Papa recently celebrated his six-year anniversary hosting middays at KNBR following a stint at crosstown rival 95.7 The Game. He’s been balancing hosting a sports talk show along with play-by-play duties since 2012. Papa has called play-by-play for the Golden State Warriors (1986–1997), Oakland Athletics (1990–2003), San Francisco Giants (2004–2008), Oakland Raiders (1997–2017), and currently with the San Francisco 49ers since 2019.
KNBR Program Director Mike Hohler read the release posted below today on Murph & Markus and wished the best for Papa moving forward in his battle with cancer.
“There’s been a lot of people inside the walls here at Cumulus San Francisco and our listeners who have been asking and wondering what’s been going on with Greg Papa,” said Hohler. “Everyone here at The Sports Leader are sending positive thoughts and well wishes your way Greg for a speedy and full recovery. We look forward to having you back behind the KNBR mic as soon as you are ready.”
Hohler hinted that Papa will also be stepping away from 49ers radio broadcasts as well. The 49ers released a statement following the news.
“The 49ers family extends our unwavering love and support to Greg Papa and his family,” wrote the 49ers in a statement. “We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to the radio booth as the ‘voice of the 49ers’ whenever he is ready.”
KNBR host Markus Boucher reacted to the news during a crosstalk segment with Silver and fill-in co-host John Dickinson.
“I’m not in this chair without Greg Papa. That’s how I got my start in radio,” said Boucher. “Thoughts and prayer and nothing but love for my guy Greg Papa.”
Silver joined in the reaction live from San Francisco 49ers training camp reflective and emotional for his colleague Greg Papa.
“Today is not a fun day,” said Silver. “I know how much he hates not being able to work right now. As a younger person in this role, there is so much value in observing those who have an all-time insane work ethic. Greg Papa is front and center with that description.”
Papa’s co-host reflected on all the lessons of the role he’s learned under Papa during his time at the station, but noted he can only try to hold the standard Papa has shown.
San Francisco based among national NFL media reacted to the news via social media.
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