The sports world has lost one of its most iconic voices after NBC Sports broadcaster Dan Hicks died suddenly on Wednesday, his family announced. He was 64 years old.
“Our family is heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected passing of Dan following an acute illness,” Hicks’ wife Hannah Storm said in a statement posted on social media. “He was a devoted husband of over 30 years, loving father to our three daughters, and cherished friend to so many. His loss is immeasurable.
“Dan was truly one of a kind and, quite simply, the person everyone wanted to be around. When he walked into a room, he brought the energy, the laughter and the people together. He was endlessly kind, thoughtful and funny, and he made everyone feel like they mattered.
“Our three daughters and I are heartbroken. We are grateful for the love and support surrounding our family during this incredibly difficult time. These are simply no words to express how much he will be missed.”
Hicks spent 34 years on the air with NBC, calling a variety of sporting events after joining the network from CNN in 1992. He was well-known for his work in booth during high-profile events including the Olympics, PGA Tour and Notre Dame football.
Among his most memorable on-air moments was Tiger Woods’ dramatic putt to force a playoff at the 2008 U.S. Open.
What is the reaction to Hicks’ death?
Several colleagues of Hicks and Storm paid tribute to the iconic commentator.
“I have no words. Dan was literally one of the kindest souls in this business, 100% of the time,” former ESPN host Sage Steele posted on X. “Hannah, I am so sorry. My prayers are with you & your daughters.”
“I’m so sorry. Deepest sympathy for you and your family, Hannah,” wrote NFL RedZone’s Scott Hanson. “May God comfort you and your loved ones as you grieve.”
NBC Sports issued a statement from the network’s top brass after Hicks’ sudden passing, celebrating his “exceptional” work with the company.
“Dan Hicks was an extraordinary colleague, friend and person,” NBC Sports’ Rick Cordella, Sam Flood and Molly Solomon said in a statement. “In his 34 years at NBC Sports, he was an exceptional storyteller and caller of games and events who elevated some of the biggest moments in sports history.
“From Olympic swimming and skiing to Notre Dame Football, numerous other high-profile events and especially as the signature voice of our golf coverage for the last 26 years, Dan’s blend of knowledge style, enthusiasm and humor informed and entertained fans for decades.
“But far beyond his on-air excellence, Dan was a better person who welcomed teammates with a smile, a joke, or a word of encouragement, sometimes all three in the same sentence. Our heartfelt condolences and love to his wife Hannah and his daughters Hannah, Ellery and Riley.”