Iconic ESPN color commentator Dick Vitale was born on June 9, 1939.
Initially an assistant coach for Rutgers, Vitale moved on to have a successful four-year stint as head coach of the University of Detroit Titans, leading them to the NCAA tournament in 1977. He was then hired as head coach of the Detroit Pistons, lasting slightly more than one season.
After being fired by the Pistons, Vitale was given his first TV opportunity at the then fledgling ESPN cable network. In the following years Vitale became an iconic TV personality, known for his distinct voice and catchphrases such as "baby" and "diaper dandy" (outstanding freshman player), as well as enthusiastic and colorful remarks he makes during games.
In 2008, Vitale was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor.
