Dickie Vitale visits USD

Raymond Ayala / Sports Editor / The USD Vista

College basketball is about to start and the University of San Diego is about to kick it off with one of the most recognized names in the sport. Today, our campus has the privilege of hosting one of the greatest minds in college basketball history. Our school welcomes Dick Vitale to our campus for a book signing to be held at the campus bookstore from 5-6:30 p.m.

Though his knowledge is key to his broadcasting technique, it is his personality that makes him famous. His phrase “that’s awesome baby!” is echoed on college campuses around the nation. For those that followed USD basketball last year, you know that Dicky V. was the announcer to call the Tampa Bay bracket “Cupcake City” during the Toreros’ spectacular run in the NCAA tournament. This year Vitale thinks USD is not only a threat, but a top 40 team in college basketball, according to his preseason predictions.

Though he is scheduled to come to USD to sign his book, “Dick Vitale’s Fabulous 50 Players and Moments in College Basketball,” do not be surprised if he shows up a little bit early to inspect the Jenny Craig Pavilion. Every gym is like a second home to him since he has probably been to almost every stadium in college basketball. The love for the game is unmatched by anyone in college sports.

Vitale was forced to take leave from his job on Dec. 18, 2007 after being diagnosed with lesions on his vocal cords. He was supposed to be out for a couple of months but ended up in the announcer’s booth on Feb. 6, 2008 to call the North Carolina-Duke basketball game. This feat is equal to a football player breaking his leg and coming back after only being out two and a half months. Vitale’s dedication is just one of the many reasons why I have so much respect for him.

True, you may call this a shameless plug, but I have a couple of things in common with Dicky V. We both talk very loud and fast, we both attended Seton Hall University during our collegiate careers and we both love college basketball. I could only one day hope to have just a small piece of the success Dickie V. has had.

Hopefully, this is not the last time USD will host Mr. Vitale. With the fan support and talented team we have, maybe his show, “College Gameday,” will arrive on campus in the near future.