Dick Vitale is back, baby! The beloved ESPN commentator made a highly anticipated comeback during the college basketball clash between the second-ranked Duke and 21st-ranked Clemson at Littlejohn Coliseum, receiving an outpouring of affection from the crowd on Saturday night. The 85-year-old Vitale, who has been absent from the commentary booth for nearly two years due to multiple cancer battles, was greeted with thunderous applause as he took his place courtside to call the game.

The emotional scene unfolded just 30 minutes before the tip-off, with the arena echoing with cheers and even a spirited impersonation of Vitale from the PA announcer, proclaiming, “Dickie V, you’re awesome, baby!” After a lengthy standing ovation, Vitale waved to the crowd, visibly moved by the warm reception he received from the fans. His absence had been due to his fight against four different forms of cancer over the past four years, including vocal cord cancer.

Expressing his joy upon his return, Vitale remarked, “The reception here has been really off the charts... It beats the hell out of chemotherapy and radiation,” reflecting on the emotional weight of his comeback amidst ongoing health struggles. Earlier in December, Vitale announced that he was cancer-free following successful treatment, stating on social media, “SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr. Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN came back CLEAN OF CANCER!” This announcement marked a significant milestone after enduring surgeries, including the removal of cancerous lymph nodes.

Vitale's dedication to cancer awareness has led him to become a symbol of perseverance within the sports community, as he has actively raised funds and fueled conversations on cancer research. His resilience earned him the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance in 2022, named after the late NC State coach Jim Valvano, a personal friend.

To all those currently battling cancer, Vitale shared a heartfelt message, urging, “Think positive and have faith and keep fighting and fighting and fighting,” solidifying his role as a beacon of hope for many facing similar challenges.

Fans and fellow commentators alike celebrated Vitale's courage and unwavering spirit during this emotional return, marking a heartwarming chapter in his illustrious career in sports broadcasting. For further details on his journey and comeback, readers can refer to articles from AP News, USA Today, and HuffPost.