The NBA’s beloved sideline announcer Craig Sager lost his long battle with acute myeloid leukemia (cancer of the blood). He was 65.
Since his humble beginnings as a reporter in 1981, Sager covered a variety of sports for TBS, TNT and CNN.
The bodacious sports journalist was best known for his vibrant, colorful suits that brightened up the sidelines at hundreds of NBA games.
Atlanta Hawks CEO Steve Koonin, on behalf of the Atlanta Hawks club, remembered Sager as “a great broadcaster and friend,” who “was an essential part of the NBA experience for fans”.
Read the Hawks’ full statement below.
Statement from the Atlanta Hawks — “We are tremendously saddened by the passing of Craig Sager. I was honored to work with him during my time at TNT. He was a great broadcaster and friend. Craig was an essential part of the NBA experience for fans as he brought the game and wonderful stories of our stars into the living rooms of so many through his outstanding and always entertaining reports.”
“Craig will always hold a special place within our Hawks family as he chose to call our great city home and was a regular at Philips Arena along with his beautiful family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, friends and fans.”
Statement from President of Basketball Operations/Head Coach Mike Budenholzer:
“Craig was a great ambassador for our game and someone we will all truly miss. He had the unique ability to connect with people and it showed in his work and passion for life. I’m fortunate to have been able to work with him and call him a friend.”
“On behalf of the team, coaches and front office, we extend our deepest condolences to his family.”
The Hawks will pay tribute to Sager with a moment of silence and special video presentation prior to Saturday’s game at Philips Arena versus the Charlotte Hornets. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m.
