Still going strong at 73, BABBEEEE!!!!

Yesterday, it was announced that Dick Vitale will call the Final Four games for the first time. However, it won’t be for CBS. Rather, he will be heard on ESPN International, which will air the games to 150 countries and territories.

Somebody should inform the rest of the world it will get loud at the beginning of April.

Said Dickie V.:

“I am thrilled for this awesome opportunity to sit courtside for the NCAA Championship game,” said Vitale. “I learned from the great Jim Simpson years ago that the championship game is the most important moment in the athletic career to many of the kids who are playing in it. I will deliver the same enthusiasm, energy, excitement and respect as I do with every game I work. I can’t believe it. All my buddies in Italy are going to be able to hear me. I just hope they can understand what I’m saying. It’s going to be Awesome Baby, with a Capital A!”

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Then today, it was announced that Vitale and Mike Tirico will be joined by Magic Johnson for ESPN’s telecast of the Indiana-Michigan State game on Feb. 19. It turns out Vitale recruited Johnson when he was coach of the University of Detroit. If he had pulled off that coup, who knows how basketball and broadcast history might have been changed?

Said Vitale:

“I remember him as a kid so well. He was a basketball junkie, playing the game for hour after hour on the playgrounds. He became ‘Magic’ from his work ethic. I have always said if there was one player I wish I could’ve coached in my life it would be Earvin Magic Johnson. I am thrilled to be able to work with him and Mike Tirico. Although, I might have to remind him a few times that Indiana will be playing as well.”