Richard John Vitale, also known as Dickie V, was born on November 25, 1945 in Rochester, New York. He grew up in nearby Depew and starred at its high school from 1960 to 1963. In his senior year he was named the best player in Western New York and earned All-American honors by Parade Magazine and Kodak All-America honors. His nickname came from his mother, who couldn’t say Richard and instead called him Dickie from birth through adulthood. Dickie V: The Man The Myth The Legend
Table of Contents
Early Life
Richard John Vitale was born on December 6, 1939, in Passaic, New Jersey to an Italian-American family. His father worked as a barber and his mother was a homemaker. He has two younger brothers, Tommy and Ronnie. Dickie V attended Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey where he played basketball and baseball. After high school, he attended Seton Hall University on a basketball scholarship.
In College
Richard John Vitale, also known as Dickie V, is an American basketball sportscaster. A former head coach in the college and professional ranks, he is well known for his 41-year tenure as a college basketball broadcaster for ESPN.
He was born on December 6th, 1939 in Passaic, New Jersey to an Italian-American family. His father worked as a car salesman while his mother stayed at home to raise Dickie and his two sisters.
Outside of College
Though he is most well-known for his work in college basketball, Dickie V actually got his start coaching at the high school level. He coached at several schools in New Jersey before finally making the jump to the college ranks.
Broadcasting Career Begins
Vitale’s broadcasting career began in 1977 when he was hired as a color commentator for the Detroit Pistons. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a national broadcaster for CBS in 1982. In 1985, he joined ESPN, where he has remained ever since. He is currently the lead commentator for college basketball games on ESPN.
Coaching Career (5 Different Head Coaching Jobs!)
Richard John Vitale, also known as Dickie V, is an American basketball sportscaster. A former head coach in the college and professional ranks, he is well known for his 41-year tenure as a college basketball broadcaster for ESPN. He began his broadcasting career while still coaching, calling games for the now-defunct Seton Hall University radio station WVNJ.
His Current Job with ESPN
Richard John Vitale, or more commonly known as Dickie V, is an American sportscaster who currently works for ESPN. He is well-known for his 41-year tenure as a college basketball broadcaster. Dickie V has also had a successful career as a head coach in both the college and professional ranks. He currently resides in Naples, Florida with his wife and children.
Enjoyment Outside of Work (his wife and dog)
When he’s not working, Dickie V enjoys spending time with his wife and their dog. He also enjoys golfing and gardening. Dickie V is a man of many interests and he loves to stay busy.
Final Thoughts
It’s safe to say that Dickie V is a legend. He’s been broadcasting college basketball games for 41 years and is still going strong. His passion for the game is evident in everything he does. He’s also a great role model, always stressing the importance of education. If you’re ever feeling down, just turn on one of Dickie V’s broadcasts and you’re sure to have a good time.
Q.&A.
1. How did you become a basketball broadcaster?
3. What was your most memorable broadcast moment?
4. Who are your favorite players to watch?
5. What do you think is the future of college basketball?
6. Who is your favorite college basketball coach?
1. How did you become a basketball broadcaster?
Dick Vitale’s broadcasting career began while he was still coaching at the University of Detroit. In 1979, he called a game for ESPN as a favor to then-program director Chet Simmons. It was supposed to be a one-time gig, but Dickie V was so good at it that he became a full-time broadcaster soon after. He’s been with ESPN ever since, and is now one of the most iconic voices in college basketball.
2. What was your most memorable broadcast moment?
For many people, Dick Vitale is synonymous with college basketball. He’s been broadcasting games for 41 years and has become one of the most recognizable voices in sports.
3. Who are your favorite players to watch?
I have been a fan of Dickie V since I was a kid. He is one of the most entertaining broadcasters in all of sports. He has a way of making the game of basketball more exciting than it already is. I enjoy watching him call games because he is always so enthusiastic and passionate about the sport.
Some of my favorite players to watch are those who Dickie V has coached, such as Grant Hill and Duke University.
4. What do you think is the future of college basketball?
The future of college basketball is shrouded in a bit of uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic has put a damper on the 2020-2021 season, and it’s unclear how things will shake out in the coming years. However, one thing is for sure: Dickie V will be there to call all the action. For 41 years, he has been the voice of college basketball, and there’s no doubt that he’ll continue to be a fixture in the sport for years to come.
5. Who is your favorite college basketball coach?
My favorite college basketball coach of all time is Dick Vitale. I remember watching him on TV when I was a kid and being in awe of his energy and enthusiasm. He’s been broadcasting games for over 40 years and is still going strong. He’s truly a legend in the world of college basketball.