Craig Sager, TNT's most-beloved NBA sideline reporter, died on Thursday after his long battle with leukemia. Sager was 65 years old.
Since his diagnosis in April 2014, Sager had undergone bone marrow transplants each summer in his fight against cancer. The NBA community rallied around the reporter, who was known for his incredibly bright wardrobe and personality.
Just two days prior to his passing, Sager was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. He also received the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2016 ESPY Awards earlier this year.
Sager was also able to cover his first ever NBA Finals game in 2016 and see the Cubs finally win the World Series – a feat he had bet on for 35 years.
The president of Turner, David Levy, released the following statement:
“Craig Sager was a beloved member of the Turner family for more than three decades and he has been a true inspiration to us all. There will never be another Craig Sager. His incredible talent, tireless work ethic and commitment to his craft took him all over the world covering sports.
“While he will be remembered fondly for his colorful attire and the TNT sideline interviews he conducted with NBA coaches and players, it’s the determination, grace and will to live he displayed during his battle with cancer that will be his lasting impact.”