The American sports broadcasting community is mourning the loss of Dan Hicks, one of NBC Sports’ most recognizable voices, who has died at the age of 64 following an acute illness.

Hicks’ death was announced on Thursday, November 12, 2026, by his wife, ESPN broadcaster Hannah Storm, and NBC Sports. His passing marks the end of a remarkable broadcasting career that spanned more than three decades and included some of the most memorable moments in American sports history.

Known for his enthusiastic commentary, deep knowledge of sports, and distinctive broadcasting style, Hicks became a familiar presence for millions of viewers who followed golf tournaments, Olympic competitions, and college football.

His work helped turn important sporting moments into lasting television memories.

Dan Hicks Dies at 64 Following an Acute Illness

According to the announcement from his family, Dan Hicks died late Wednesday in Connecticut after experiencing an acute illness.

His wife, Hannah Storm, shared the heartbreaking news in a public statement, describing the loss as sudden and unexpected.

She remembered Hicks as a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend whose kindness and sense of humor touched everyone around him.

Storm also expressed gratitude for the support the family had received during an incredibly difficult time.

The couple had been married for more than 30 years and shared three daughters: Hannah, Ellery, and Riley.

No additional medical details about the illness were included in the family’s announcement.

A Broadcasting Career That Spanned More Than Three Decades

Dan Hicks joined NBC Sports in 1992 after previously working at CNN.

Over the following 34 years, he became one of the network’s most respected and recognizable broadcasters.

His versatility allowed him to cover a wide range of sporting events, including professional golf, Olympic swimming, alpine skiing, Notre Dame football, and other major competitions.

In 2000, Hicks became NBC Sports’ lead golf play-by-play announcer, a position that placed him at the center of some of the sport’s biggest tournaments.

He worked alongside respected golf analysts, including Johnny Miller, Paul Azinger, and Kevin Kisner.

His ability to combine detailed sporting knowledge with excitement and personality helped make his broadcasts enjoyable for both longtime golf fans and casual viewers.

The Legendary Tiger Woods Call That Fans Will Remember

Among the many memorable moments in Hicks’ career, one stands out in particular.

During the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines, Tiger Woods faced a crucial birdie putt on the final hole. Making the putt would force a playoff against Rocco Mediate.

As Woods prepared for the shot, viewers watched with anticipation.

When the putt dropped, Hicks delivered his now-famous reaction:

“Expect anything different?”

The call quickly became one of the most recognizable moments in modern golf broadcasting.

Woods eventually won the tournament after the playoff, and Hicks’ enthusiastic commentary became part of the lasting memory of that historic championship.

For many viewers, his voice was inseparable from the excitement of watching Woods compete.

His Role in Covering the Olympic Games

Golf was only one part of Hicks’ impressive broadcasting career.

He also covered 16 Olympic Games, including both Summer and Winter competitions, beginning with the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

His work included swimming, alpine skiing, and speed skating.

One of his most memorable assignments came during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when he called the men’s 4×100-meter freestyle relay.

The race became historic after American swimmer Jason Lezak delivered an extraordinary final leg, helping the United States secure victory and supporting Michael Phelps’ pursuit of eight gold medals at the Games.

Hicks’ commentary helped capture the excitement of the competition for audiences watching around the world.

He also worked alongside swimming analyst Rowdy Gaines during major Olympic events and covered the achievements of athletes such as Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky.

Dan Hicks and Notre Dame Football

In addition to golf and Olympic coverage, Hicks became an important voice in college football broadcasting.

He served as NBC’s play-by-play announcer for Notre Dame football, bringing his experience and distinctive style to one of the most recognizable programs in American college sports.

He previously called Notre Dame games from 2013 through 2016 before returning to the role in 2024.

The 2026 season was his seventh season covering the Fighting Irish.

Hicks had been scheduled to call Notre Dame’s upcoming game against Boston College on Saturday, November 14.

Following his death, NBC arranged for Jason Benetti to take over the broadcast assignment.

The change was another reminder of the sudden loss experienced by colleagues and viewers who had expected to hear Hicks’ familiar voice during the weekend’s game.

NBC Sports Pays Tribute to a Respected Colleague

Following the announcement, NBC Sports released a statement honoring Hicks’ contributions to the network and the broadcasting industry.

Network executives Rick Cordella, Sam Flood, and Molly Solomon described him as an exceptional storyteller whose work helped elevate some of the biggest sporting events in history.

They also highlighted his personality away from the television cameras, remembering him as a colleague who welcomed others with humor, kindness, and encouragement.

The statement emphasized that his impact extended far beyond his professional achievements.

Hicks was remembered not only for his broadcasting talent but also for the relationships he built throughout his career.

The PGA Tour and other sporting organizations also shared tributes recognizing his contributions to the game and the memories he helped create for fans.

A Family Remembering a Devoted Husband and Father

While sports fans remember Dan Hicks for his work on television, his family remembers him for the person he was away from the broadcasting booth.

Hannah Storm’s statement described a man who brought laughter and positive energy into every room.

She also emphasized his dedication to his family and the important role he played in the lives of their three daughters.

For those who worked with him, his kindness and sense of humor were just as memorable as his professional achievements.

His passing leaves a significant absence for his family, friends, colleagues, and the many viewers who followed his broadcasts over the years.

Dan Hicks Leaves a Lasting Legacy in Sports Broadcasting

Dan Hicks spent more than 30 years helping audiences experience some of the greatest moments in modern sports.

From Tiger Woods’ dramatic putt at the 2008 U.S. Open to Michael Phelps’ historic Olympic performances, his voice became part of the memories shared by generations of sports fans.

His career demonstrated the important role broadcasters play in connecting audiences with the emotion, drama, and achievements of athletic competition.

Although his broadcasts will no longer accompany upcoming tournaments and games, the moments he helped bring to life remain part of sports history.

For NBC Sports, the golf community, Olympic audiences, and Notre Dame football fans, Dan Hicks will be remembered as a talented broadcaster whose enthusiasm and storytelling left a lasting impression.

His legacy extends beyond statistics, championships, and memorable commentary. It lives on in the countless sporting moments that became unforgettable through his voice.