The Texas Longhorns are set to face the No. 6 Duke Blue Devils in the inaugural Dick Vitale Invitational on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This matchup marks a significant moment in college basketball, honoring the legendary commentator Dick Vitale, who has become synonymous with the sport through his exuberant style and passionate commentary.
A Celebration of Vitale’s Legacy
At 86 years old, Vitale will call the game, having recently overcome significant health challenges, including multiple battles with cancer. His enthusiasm for the sport remains undiminished, as he prepares for this special event. “I’ve been lucky,” Vitale said in an interview with The Associated Press. “I’m pinching myself to be going on TV after four cancer battles.” His resilience is a testament to his dedication and love for college basketball, which he describes as “like medicine.”
The Dick Vitale Invitational is a tribute from ESPN Events, officially announced in June, recognizing Vitale’s contributions since the network’s inception in 1979. His iconic phrases and vibrant commentary have left a lasting impact on fans, players, and coaches alike. “His passion for college basketball made the game better and certainly impacted coaches, players, and teams,” said Sean Miller, head coach of the Longhorns. “We are honored as a program to be a part of this game.”
Vitale’s Health Journey
Vitale’s journey back to the court has been challenging. His health struggles began in 2021 with a diagnosis of melanoma, followed by treatments for lymphoma and other forms of cancer. He has candidly shared his experiences on social media, discussing the emotional and physical toll of his treatments. “I felt trapped not being able to speak after vocal-cord surgery,” he noted, illustrating the hurdles he faced. Support from family, friends, and colleagues at ESPN has played a crucial role in his recovery.
As he returns to broadcasting, Vitale is adapting his routines to manage his health better. He plans to limit his commitments, taking on fewer games and reducing the number of public appearances to protect his vocal cords. “I used to say yes to everybody, but now I’m learning to say no,” he explained. On game days, he aims to minimize verbal strain, opting to work in larger broadcast crews to lessen the pressure on his voice.
Despite these changes, Vitale’s commitment to raising funds for pediatric cancer research remains unwavering. The V Foundation, founded in his name, has raised over $105 million in its 20-year history, highlighting his dedication to the cause. He is particularly excited about the current raffle for a chance to win a 2026 BMW Z4 convertible, which aims to support ongoing research efforts.
As the college basketball season kicks off, the Duke-Texas game stands not only as a competitive matchup but also as a celebration of Vitale’s enduring spirit and his contributions to the sport. “It really moved me to tears,” he remarked about the event’s launch. With his characteristic enthusiasm, Vitale is set to enhance the experience for players and fans alike as he takes his place courtside once again.
