Cock Vitale: It was a thrill to be back on

Tuesday night in Indianapolis was so special.I had been thinking of that night since the day Dr. Rick Brown stated I was cancer free and Dr. Steven Zeitels stated my singing cord surgical treatments succeeded. I was finally cleared to go back to the sidelines, calling basketball games for ESPN.I was thrilled to sign up with Dan Shulman and Holly Rowe to call the Michigan State-Kentucky game at the Champions Classic in Indianapolis. It was a thrill to see Tom Izzo and John Calipari take on in a terrific early-season test. The coaches have passion and pride and correspond winners. They are 2 of the very best in the business!Of course the

game went double overtime, with Michigan State getting a big win. Rather a performance coming off the Gonzaga loss.The game changed when Kentucky’s Oscar Tshiebwe fouled out after publishing his 17th straight double-double. Michigan State is tough and solid and gets excellent guard play. Then include H squared, Malik Hall and Joey Hauser. Izzo celebrated with some pasta after the W!Kentucky might be among many gifted teams in America. Tsiebwe is back after winning Player of the Year last season. He can dominate games, starring on both ends of the court. He is a rebounding maker. The Cats have depth, talent, and outdoors shooting with transfers Antonio Reeves and CJ Frederick.It was fun to see the skilled college basketball players in action.

College hoops has to do with the name of the front of the jersey, baby! After the game, my partner Lorraine and I got on an airplane and flew to Boston to go through a scoping

by Dr. Zeitels to identify how my singing cords reacted to the two-plus hours talking, calling the contest.I was filled with stress and anxiety however was prepared and all set to begin my 44th season at ESPN. I like being around the fans and like the excitement of calling games. Thanks to everyone who has actually played a role in making Tuesday night a reality. My household, led by my spouse Lorraine, and my second household at ESPN, led by President Jimmy Pitaro, have actually been so great to me during this difficult time.I need to thank a lot of fans, coaches, players that sent me encouraging messages during my cancer and vocal cord battles.When I was being in the medical facility battling cancer, all the text messages

I got really raised my spirits to get me to Tuesday night. I kept saying”Never ever quit.” It has actually already been a wacky season with lots of upsets. I’m excited about calling more games in the 2022-23 season.The 18th annual Dick Vitale Gala, benefiting the V Structure, will be held May 5, 2023, at the Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota,

Florida. For additional information go to dickvitaleonline.com.