Cory Alexander: Dick Vitale’s return to announcing ‘matters’ to college basketball players

Saturday’s game between Duke and Clemson marked Dick Vitale’s return to announcing for the first time in nearly two years. During the game, Dickie V’s broadcast partner, Cory Alexander, made sure that Vitale knew how much his return meant to a lot of people — including the players on the floor.

During Clemson’s upset win over Duke, Vitale pointed out that the Blue Devils “get everybody’s best hit.”

“Absolutely,” Alexander said. “It means more when you see Duke on the front of the jersey. And it means even more when you’ve got Dickie V on his return, back in the building. And we’re seeing the Tigers’ best effort because of that.”

“You’re trying to be nice to me,” Vitale said. “They could care less I’m sitting at courtside.”

“You gave me the credit for being a former athlete,” Alexander replied. “I’m telling you now. It matters to these young men that you are sitting here today. They grew up watching you call this game and are looking forward to their first chance to be able to play in front of you.”

To that, Vitale had one obvious reply.

“Are you — can you be an agent?” he said. “I want you to call Mr. Pitaro of ESPN and get me a new deal.”

Alexander certainly had no issue letting Vitale know how highly he’s regarded.

Later in the broadcast, both Vitale and Alexander honored another announcing legend, Hubie Brown, who will call his final NBA game on Sunday.

“Hubie is so special,” Vitale said. “I wish him the best. 91 years of age. He knows more basketball than any human being I ever knew.”

“For the record, that’s my Super Bowl tomorrow,” Alexander replied. “Watching Hubie do his last game.”