Legendary broadcaster Dick Enberg died late Thursday night at the age of 82. His family announced the broadcaster’s death early Friday morning, which led to an outpouring of grief on social media from fans and broadcasters alike.
In an age of intense criticism for anyone in sports media, it’s hard to find people who didn’t respect or outright love Enberg. He was the voice of countless major sporting events across a wide array of disciplines. The broadcaster for the San Diego Padres, he was also the unofficial voice of Wimbledon, covering 28 events at the All-England Tennis and Lawn Club. He covered 10 Super Bowls, eight NCAA men’s basketball championships and was there for many of UCLA’s men’s basketball titles under John Wooden.
His signature exclamation — “oh my!” — will long be remembered by sports fans when they reminisce about a big moment in a game.
Many expressed their grief over Enberg’s death and their heartfelt memories about the legendary broadcaster late Thursday night and Friday morning as news of his death spread. For many, he will always be a part of Wimbledon.
Amazing thing about Dick Enberg is he prompts different memories depending on when/where you grew up. My first thought is of Wimbledon https://t.co/WYteMctrxW
— J.A. Adande (@jadande) December 22, 2017
Heartbroken over the passing of Dick Enberg. I grew up listening & wishing he’d one day call my Wimbledon match & instead the dream played out a bit different—I was blessed & honored to work alongside the legend. A one of a kind talent w/the biggest❤️#ohmy will you be missed pic.twitter.com/4yZQHdDdYg
— Kelly Crull (@Kelly_Crull) December 22, 2017
Many shared stories of his kindness over the years and how he impacted young broadcasters and those in media.
First met Dick Enberg '96 @NBCOlympics. NBC had a rooftop lounge at our hotel. I nervously introduced myself. He invited me to join him for breakfast. He immediately became a mentor to me. Always enjoyed when our paths' crossed. He was a true gentleman and a great broadcaster.
— Bob Papa (@BobPapa_NFL) December 22, 2017
RIP Dick Enberg. Incredibly kind and welcoming. Generous with his time and experience. Thinking of the jokes and laughs he’d share with @CliffDrysdale … what a sincerely lovely man. Thoughts are with his family. #OhMy
— Chris McKendry (@ChrisMcKendry) December 22, 2017
But for most, it was simply the way he made sports sound so damn fun.
1 way I fell in love with sports was as a boy watching Sports Challenge hosted by Dick Enberg, then I knew it was a big game late Sunday afternoon when I heard Enberg and Merlin Olsen. #RIP
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 22, 2017
Dick Enberg was the maestro of the greatest college basketball broadcast team ever assembled with Billy Packer and Al McGuire on NBC. They were entertaining, informative and simply a joy to listen to and to watch. RIP Dick. You will be missed.
— Bruce Beck (@BruceBeck4NY) December 22, 2017
His storytelling, and the way it so seamlessly wove its way into a broadcast, was brilliant.
So saddened to hear the news of the passing of the legendary Dick Enberg. Had the pleasure to work with and interview him. A genius and genial storyteller of the best variety.
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) December 22, 2017
Dick Enberg, as good as it gets.
He cared about the game and the viewers. He elevated his partners. A perfect fit calling any sport .. and even better guy when you got to meet him. I will cherish our chats in Queens, Northern Michigan and at Wimbledon.
Prayers to his family.— MikeTirico (@miketirico) December 22, 2017
Saddened to learn of the passing of Dick Enberg. I got to know Dick through our work for the @CoSIDAAcadAA Hall of Fame . He was a gentleman, master storyteller, passionate about education&service. A better person than broadcaster & he’s a legend as a broadcaster. Prayers up.
— Rece Davis (@ReceDavis) December 22, 2017
There won’t be another Enberg in sports, but the impact he had on the industry is unmistakable. I’d expect to hear a few “oh mys” in the coming days.
