In an episode of HBO’s Real Sports that is set to air on Tuesday night, longtime Turner Sports sideline reporter Craig Sager reveals the unfortunate news that his leukemia is no longer in remission, and his prognosis has taken a dramatic turn for the worse.
Sager’s leukemia returned last spring, and despite two stem-cell transplants, he was recently told that patients at the stage he is currently at typically only have 3-6 months remaining to live.
In Real Sports profile, Craig Sager says he’s “fighting to the end” after doctors gave him “3-6 months” diagnosis pic.twitter.com/J725uNfbF9
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) March 22, 2016
Sager has vowed to fight to the end.
Sager, 64, was originally diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in the spring of 2014, but it went into remission and he was ultimately able to return to the sidelines in March of last year.
Shortly afterward, the cancer was back. However, he beat it again and subsequently returned to work for the beginning of the 2015-16 NBA season to the delight of fans, colleagues and players alike.
According to Dan Devine of Yahoo Sports, a Turner Sports spokesperson recently indicated Sager will continue to fulfill his duties this season during NBA On TNT broadcasts.
Sager’s flashy attire and captivating sense of humor have made him a beloved figure in the NBA for the better part of two decades.
The outpouring of support from peers in the sports industry has been overwhelming.
Hardly know what to say to Craig Sager. We barely know each other. Yet I feel like my best friend is in this battle. Fight like hell, Craig.
— Mike Greenberg (@Espngreeny) March 22, 2016
Pls pray 4 TNT_CraigSager as he fights cancer / he is battling & has many praying 4 his recovery as his Leukemia is now back / #HAVEFAITH
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) March 21, 2016
The world is rooting for Craig Sager. We’re all better for having known him, having him touch our lives.
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) March 22, 2016
Prayers go out to Sager and his family during this incredibly difficult time.