Vitale earns Hall of Fame induction

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Dick Vitale’s birthday may be months away, but his latest “birthday gift” will be “Bringing a W” for the sidelines.

Vitale learned Jan. 10 he will be inducted into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame, as part of the 54th annual NSSA Awards Weekend June 8 to June 10.

“It’s a special honor because you’re selected by your peers,” Vitale said, smiling at the thought of celebrating his June 9 birthday while at the ceremony. “I was really thrilled when I was nominated (because the caliber of nominees). I’m in awe.”

The ESPN college basketball analyst said he was honored by the induction, and made sure to recognize individuals who worked hard to help him realize success.

“It’s a team that makes that happen,” said Vitale, a Lakewood Ranch resident. “It’s a commitment from everyone — the broadcaster, producer, director and (all the) behind-the-scenes (people). There are so many people that make a telecast happen.”

The NSSA induction will be Vitale’s 12th Hall of Fame induction. Most recently, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in 2008. He also has been inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, the University of Detroit Hall of Fame and Florida Sports Hall of Fame, among others.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].