"Remembering Greg Gumble"

When you think of the many trailblazers and pioneers for Black America, 
plenty come to mind. In an era where we didn't have a lot of sports 
commentators and play-by-play broadcasters, Greg Gumble became the first 
to do it. Upon hearing the news of his passing on Friday December 27th, 
Gumble was a man of great reverence.

Getting his start at ESPN, he helped usher in what fans know as 
"Sportscenter" and having play-by-play games for early NBA games. He was 
also a broadcaster for New York Knicks games to back up legendary 
announcer Marv Albert. Gumble served as a host for the New York Yankees 
pregame and postgame shows. His humble beginnings would lead to greater 
horizons.

In his first stint with CBS Sports in a part-time role, his voice could be heard
in NFL broadcasts. Along with NFL, came college basketball as well.
Becoming the lead host of The NFL Today, alongside NFL Hall of Fame
Quarterback Terry Bradshaw from 1990 to 1993. He didn't stop there as he
helped anchor CBS' coverage of Major League Baseball, college football,
and covering two NASCAR races in the Daytona 500 and Pepsi 400.

Gumble's impact on sports announcing, broadcasting allowed versatility
across football, basketball and baseball. Even play-by-play for the NBA
alongside Quinn Buckner in an era where Magic Johnson and Larry Bird
saved the league with their coastal teams clashing in the NBA Finals. A
career which gave Black America hope to achieving greatness from humble
beginnings. Summer and Winter Olympics announcing as well was growth of
being the best man for any sporting event.

Gumble's shining moment arrived back in CBS for a second stint and
became the lead announcer with former NFL Quarterback Phil Simms as his
color commentator. He led the NFL on CBS and made history by calling

Super Bowls XXV & XXXVIII. The first African-American sports announcer to
lead the biggest sporting event in America. Between in-studio hosting and
lead announcing, he returned back to the booth in what's called the number
two slot.

What fans will remember Gumble for: NCAA Men's College Basketball aka
March Madness. Serving as studio host alongside Clark Kellogg, Kenny
Smith and everyone's favorite Charles Barkley. The laughter he'd enjoyed
with those guys is second to none. His voice and wisdom is a treasure to
sports fans alike. He was a man who carried the torch and baton for all of
Black America.

March Madness won't be the same come 2025; as it'll be the second time his
presence will be absent. He paved the way and gave aspiring sports
broadcasters a platform to be heard. Even in humble beginnings, Gumble is
a pioneer in sports television, A legacy fulfilled and great life lived in the
midst of sickness. He approached everything like a live segment and
prepared the right way. As a young black man in the content space,
understanding my platform is crucial in turbulent times.

Thank you Greg Gumble for all your contributions to sports television. From
all of us here at The Gryd Network, we send our deepest condolences to the
family and friends. Rest in Power Greg Gumble.