CBB Icon Dick Vitale on 'Total Voice Rest' After Surgery on Vocal Cords

Broadcasting legend Dick Vitale underwent successful vocal cord surgery Wednesday and will be on total voice rest for the next four weeks.

Vitale released a statement following the surgery saying his doctors are confident he'll be able to return to broadcasting for the 2022-23 season.

"He feels optimistic that if I follow his plan (which I will) that he will get me back on courtside to do what I truly love talking college hoops during the 2022-23 season," the statement read. "A big THANK YOU to Dr. Zeitels and his staff and also those from Mass General Hospital for caring in such a professional manner. Dr. Z and all involved in surgery and treatment were Awesome baby with a capital A."

Vitale announced in Janaury that he will miss the remainder of the 2021-22 season because of dysplasia and lesions on his vocal cords. The 82-year-old was previously diagnosed with two forms of cancer in 2021. 

One of the most legendary voices in broadcasting history, Vitale has been with ESPN since 1979. His commentary has become synonymous with major college basketball games on the network, with his unbridled enthusiasm permeating through the screen for over 40 years.

He was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.