On Monday night, April 7, 2025, CBS concluded its coverage of Florida’s thrilling victory over Houston in the National Championship Game, a moment that will be etched in the memories of college basketball fans. However, the broadcast ended on a particularly poignant note as Ernie Johnson paid tribute to the late Greg Gumbel, a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.
As the traditional "One Shining Moment" video prepared to roll, Johnson took a moment to honor Gumbel, who passed away in December 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. This year’s edition of the iconic segment came with a bittersweet introduction, as Gumbel had historically held the honor of introducing "One Shining Moment" at the end of the NCAA Tournament.
“We wrap up our coverage from San Antonio with a moment our late colleague and our beloved friend Greg Gumbel relished,” Johnson said, his voice filled with emotion. “The chance to say, ‘Here is One Shining Moment.’” The heartfelt tribute resonated with viewers, reminding them of Gumbel’s significant impact on the sport and the broadcasting world.
Greg Gumbel’s legacy at CBS spanned decades, beginning with his initial stint from 1986 to 1994, during which he became a familiar face in sports broadcasting. After a brief period away from CBS, he returned in 1998 following Super Bowl XXXII and continued to anchor the NCAA Tournament coverage, becoming synonymous with March Madness. His sudden passing left a void in the hearts of many, and tributes poured in throughout the tournament.
Johnson had previously honored Gumbel at the start of the tournament, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the broadcasting community and fans alike. “Nobody loved the Stones more than Greg Gumbel,” he remarked at the beginning of the tournament, referencing Gumbel’s favorite band. The emotional tribute was complemented by the CBS crew wearing pins in Gumbel’s honor throughout the tournament, showcasing the deep respect and admiration they held for him.
As the NCAA Tournament unfolded, the presence of Gumbel was felt in various ways. During the Round of 64, the song “Waiting on a Friend” by the Rolling Stones played in the background, symbolizing the anticipation of his return to the tournament he loved. Johnson’s poignant words at the tournament’s opening echoed the sentiments of many: “A year ago at this time we were waiting on a friend to return. We knew he was missing March Madness, an event for which his name is synonymous, for personal reasons.”
Gumbel’s journey in sports broadcasting began in 1988 when he joined CBS as a part-time announcer. He quickly rose through the ranks, hosting "The NFL Today" from 1990 to 1993. After CBS lost the rights to the NFL and MLB, Gumbel transitioned to NBC in 1994. However, he made a triumphant return to CBS in 1998, where he took on the role of NCAA Tournament host and play-by-play broadcaster for NFL games.
Despite his absence from the 2024 NCAA Tournament due to family health issues, Gumbel’s legacy continued to shine brightly. The 2023 tournament marked his final March Madness on the desk, a bittersweet farewell for a broadcaster who had become an integral part of the event.
As the broadcast concluded, the emotional weight of the moment was palpable. Johnson, sitting in the seat once held by Gumbel, delivered a heartfelt farewell to the tournament and its beloved tradition. “It’s heavy in here,” he said, reflecting the collective grief shared by his colleagues and viewers.
The 2025 NCAA Tournament will undoubtedly be remembered not only for Florida’s championship win but also for the lasting impact of Greg Gumbel’s contributions to the sport. His dedication, passion, and warmth left an indelible mark on college basketball, and as fans watched “One Shining Moment,” they were reminded of the joy Gumbel brought to the game.
In the end, the tribute served as a fitting conclusion to a tournament filled with excitement and emotion. As the screen faded to black, viewers were left with the powerful reminder of Gumbel’s legacy and the enduring spirit of March Madness.
