The echoes of Greg Gumbel’s absence resonate deeply throughout the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. For decades, his voice served as the quintessential soundtrack to March Madness, guiding viewers through the exhilarating highs and crushing lows of the competition. Now, in the wake of his passing from cancer last December at the age of 78, a palpable void hangs over the tournament coverage, a poignant reminder of the indelible mark he left on the sport and the broadcasting world.
Ian Eagle, a seasoned announcer preparing for his own journey to the Final Four, has found himself revisiting old text message exchanges with Gumbel, a bittersweet exercise in remembrance. Eagle, who joined CBS in 1998, recalls being immediately struck by Gumbel’s humility and approachability. The messages evoke laughter, a testament to Gumbel’s inherent kindness, but they also trigger a wave of emotion, a tangible sense of loss.
The absence of Gumbel’s presence during the 2025 tournament is particularly acute. For 25 years, he had been the welcoming voice of Selection Sunday and the steady hand guiding viewers through each day of the tournament. His absence is not merely a professional one; it’s a deeply personal loss for those who worked alongside him and considered him a friend.
"It’s very sad," Eagle remarked, reflecting on Gumbel’s impact. "He just had a major impact on the people at our network and people that work this event."
Even last year, when Gumbel had already stepped away from his hosting duties, the void was noticeable. But this year, with the knowledge that he is no longer with them, the experience of covering the tournament is profoundly different.
Clark Kellogg, a CBS studio analyst who spent over two decades alongside Gumbel, echoed Eagle’s sentiments. "He was such an integral part of what the public got to experience and what we got to experience as his colleagues and friends," Kellogg stated. "I got to spend 20-plus years next to him and the seat that he sat in as the host of the road to the Final Four. There’s no way you aren’t impacted by who he was as a man and as a broadcaster."
CBS has made a concerted effort to honor Gumbel’s legacy throughout the tournament. On Selection Sunday, a heartfelt tribute video was aired, accompanied by the music of The Rolling Stones, Gumbel’s favorite band, which filled the studio. The off-camera crew paid their respects by donning Rolling Stones shirts, and host Adam Zucker acknowledged the honor of filling Gumbel’s seat, recognizing the immense responsibility it carried. The rest of the studio crew shared their personal reflections on Gumbel’s profound impact on the tournament.
The tributes continued as the first round of games commenced. The Rolling Stones’ music was featured during the broadcast of opening day, and host Ernie Johnson and his crew paused to remember Gumbel. Kellogg poignantly described the experience as "sad and surreal" without Gumbel in the host chair. In a subtle yet meaningful gesture, all broadcasters are wearing a gold microphone pin on their suits throughout the tournament, a visual reminder of Gumbel’s enduring presence. Each commentary team has also dedicated time to speaking about Gumbel and his contributions to the sport.
"He was synonymous with this event because of the excellence in which he did his job for all of these years," Eagle emphasized.
The absence of Gumbel on camera is palpable, leaving a void that cannot be easily filled. Kellogg, who occupied the seat to his left for so many years, poignantly expressed, "I miss him terribly."
However, Kellogg also focused on the qualities that made Gumbel such an iconic figure. He possessed a deep and genuine appreciation for the NCAA Tournament and the unforgettable moments it produced. Anyone who had the privilege of working with him felt the spirit and class he exuded, qualities that inspired those around him to elevate their own performances in showcasing the tournament.
Gumbel’s influence extended beyond the professional realm, shaping the character and perspectives of those he worked with. "My life has been enhanced," Kellogg shared. "I trust that I’m better in my role as a person, but also in my role as a broadcaster, because I got a chance to be in his orbit for the years that I did."
The 2025 March Madness tournament is not just a sporting event; it is also a celebration of Greg Gumbel’s life and legacy. While his physical presence is deeply missed, his spirit continues to inspire and influence those who are carrying on his work. The tributes, the memories shared, and the unwavering commitment to excellence serve as a testament to the profound impact he had on the NCAA Tournament and the countless individuals who were fortunate enough to know him. His voice may be silent, but his influence will continue to resonate throughout the tournament for years to come, a reminder of the power of kindness, professionalism, and a genuine love for the game. The tournament this year carries a weight, a solemnity that acknowledges the passing of a legend and celebrates the enduring power of his contribution. While the games are sure to produce thrilling moments and unforgettable highlights, the 2025 March Madness will forever be remembered as the year Greg Gumbel’s voice was missed, but his spirit was celebrated.
