Dick Vitale has an estimated net worth of $20 million. The longtime sports broadcaster and former basketball coach built his fortune through decades in television, coaching, endorsements, and book publishing.
Often called “Dickie V,” Vitale became one of the most recognizable voices in college basketball thanks to his energetic commentary on ESPN. Known for his trademark phrases like “It’s awesome, baby!” and “PTP’er” (Prime Time Player), he has spent more than four decades covering college basketball games and major tournaments.
Before his broadcasting career, Vitale coached at the high school, college, and professional levels, including a stint as head coach of the Detroit Pistons.
| Dick Vitale Net Worth | $20 Million |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1939 |
| Place of Birth | Passaic, New Jersey |
Early Life
Dick Vitale was born on June 9, 1939, in Passaic, New Jersey, and grew up in nearby Garfield. His father, John Vitale, worked as a clothing press operator and security guard, while his mother, Mae, worked as a seamstress.
Vitale attended Seton Hall University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He later obtained a master’s degree in education from William Paterson University.
His coaching career began in 1958 when he worked at an elementary school in Garfield, New Jersey. He eventually moved into high school coaching and became head coach at East Rutherford High School, where he led his teams to two New Jersey state championships. Between 1964 and 1971, his teams compiled an impressive 131–47 record.
College and NBA Coaching Career
Vitale moved to college basketball in 1971 when he joined Rutgers University as an assistant coach.
Two years later, he became head coach at the University of Detroit Mercy. During his tenure from 1973 to 1977, Vitale led the team to a 78–30 record, including a memorable 21-game winning streak during the 1977 season and an appearance in the NCAA tournament.
After that successful run, he was promoted to the university’s athletic director.
Vitale then moved to the professional level in 1978, becoming head coach of the Detroit Pistons. The team finished the 1978–79 season with a 30–52 record, and he was later replaced early in the following season.
Broadcasting Career at ESPN
After leaving coaching, Vitale received a television opportunity from ESPN, which was a new network at the time.
In December 1979, he called ESPN’s first major NCAA basketball broadcast alongside Joe Boyle, featuring DePaul University defeating the University of Wisconsin–Madison 90–77.
Although he initially struggled with broadcasting mechanics, Vitale quickly developed a distinctive and enthusiastic style that resonated with fans. Over the years, he became synonymous with college basketball coverage and called hundreds of games annually.
He also frequently covered matchups between Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, two of the sport’s biggest programs.
Throughout his career, Vitale has worked with prominent broadcasters such as Brent Musburger, Mike Tirico, Brad Nessler, and Dan Shulman.
By 2009, he had called approximately 1,000 basketball games on television.
Hall of Fame Honors
Vitale’s impact on the sport has earned him numerous honors. In 2008, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a broadcaster.
He was also inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
Beyond broadcasting, Vitale is widely known for his charitable work. He has been a strong supporter of cancer research through the V Foundation for Cancer Research, which was founded by legendary coach Jim Valvano.
In 2022, Vitale faced his own health battle after being diagnosed with lymphoma and melanoma but later returned to broadcasting following treatment.
Other Media Work and Books
Vitale has also appeared in several entertainment projects outside of sports broadcasting. In 1994, he appeared in the video game Dick Vitale’s ‘Awesome, Baby!’ College Hoops and later contributed voice work to the NCAA Basketball franchise.
He has appeared as himself in films such as Blue Chips, He Got Game, and Love & Basketball.
Vitale is also a prolific author. Some of his books include:
- Vitale
- Time Out Baby!
- Campus Chaos
- Living a Dream
Personal Life and Real Estate
Dick Vitale has been married to Lorraine McGrath since 1971. The couple has two daughters, Sherri and Terri, and several grandchildren.
In 2001, the couple purchased a 1.4-acre property in Bradenton, Florida, for $485,000. They later built a 12,700-square-foot mansion on the land in 2003. Today, the property is estimated to be worth between $5 million and $7 million.
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