Dan Hicks, a revered NBC Sports broadcaster known for his iconic calls in golf, Olympic swimming and skiing, and Notre Dame football, died unexpectedly on Wednesday at age 64, his family announced Thursday. Hicks passed away following an acute illness, according to a statement from his wife, ESPN anchor Hannah Storm, who described his death as sudden and unexpected.
Hicks’ death triggers widespread tributes from colleagues and fans. NBC Sports president Rick Cordella, executive producer Sam Flood, and executive producer Molly Solomon issued a joint statement Thursday honoring Hicks’ 34-year career, calling him an "extraordinary colleague, friend, and person" whose storytelling elevated major sports moments. Storm shared a heartfelt message on social media, emphasizing his roles as a devoted husband of 32 years, loving father to their three daughters, and a cherished friend to many.
Hicks, who joined NBC in 1992 after three years at CNN, was scheduled to call Notre Dame’s football game against Boston College on Saturday. His career spanned 26 years covering the PGA Tour, 16 Olympics starting with the 1992 Barcelona Games, and seven seasons of Notre Dame football. He was also the lead announcer for golf at the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and the U.S. Women’s Open. In 2024, he won a Sports Emmy for his work on the Paris Olympics coverage.
Colleagues and sports figures reflect on Hicks’ legacy. Robert Maltbie, a golf broadcast colleague and friend, described the loss as "tough," highlighting Hicks’ 27 U.S. Open calls and 23 U.S. Women’s Open broadcasts. Hicks was also noted for his call of Tiger Woods’ 2008 victory at Torrey Pines, where his understated yet memorable delivery captured the moment without immediate hyperbole. During an Associated Press interview in September 2024, Hicks reflected on his longevity at NBC, calling it "incredibly lucky" to remain with the network for decades.
Storm’s statement emphasized Hicks’ ability to bring energy, laughter, and connection to those around him, calling him "endlessly kind, thoughtful, and funny." NBC Sports’ leadership echoed these sentiments, praising his on-air excellence and his role as a mentor and friend to teammates. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from the sports community, underscoring his impact beyond broadcasting.
Hicks is survived by his wife, Hannah Storm, and their three daughters.