Michael Wilbon is taking an indefinite leave of absence from ESPN due to “several health issues,” the legendary sports commentator announced in a statement Monday.
“This isn’t retirement, but it is a journey to the injured list. Hopefully it’s not a long stretch. Struggles with multiple health issues in recent months have led me to take an indefinite leave of absence from my PTI and NBA duties at ESPN and ABC,” Wilbon began.
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Team Wilbon coach Michael Wilbon during roster introductions before the NBA All Star-Celebrity Game at Wintrust Arena on February 14, 2020. (Quinn Harris/USA TODAY Sports)
“I probably should have listened to medical professionals and loved ones, including Kornheiser, who saw worrying signs in recent years that suggested I was taking time off early. But I didn’t.”
Wilbon did not specify what medical issues he is facing. He has previously spoken about managing diabetes and the complications of the disease.
He co-hosted “PTI” from his home in Arizona last Monday, but was away for the rest of the week.
Most importantly, we would like to send our best wishes to Michael Wilbon. Personally, it was an honor to get to know him professionally. OutKick has had the pleasure of interviewing Wilbon on several occasions.
He is one of the greatest sports writers and commentators of this generation. And it’s not a cliché to say that he’s an even greater person.
It would be difficult to find anyone in this industry more universally respected by peers, viewers, readers and contemporaries.
ESPN host Michael Wilbon has worked for ESPN for years. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Scott Van Pelt provided OutKick with commentary on Wilbon’s importance to the industry both as a professional and as a person:
“Growing up reading him in the Post, I never imagined we would be colleagues and friends. Because he is old school at the best of times, he would roll his eyes at the idea that he is revered by all of us, but he is. I hope he sees the outpouring and allows it to land in a way that will serve as fuel to feel a little better,” Van Pelt said.
Other sports media commentators wished Wilbon well on Monday, referring to his influence on them:
Clay Travis: “Get well. One of the all-time greats in writing and television.”
Josh Pate: “I always learn something when Michael Wilbon speaks… here’s a big shout out to someone I hope will be around for years to come 🫡.”
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John Buccigross: “The charm and warmth of this man are astounding. There is nothing like him. Rest your mind and your bones, Mr. Wilbon.”
Dan Wetzel: “Good health to Michael Wilbon, whose talent, intelligence and work ethic have made him one of the greatest sports columnists AND sports commentators of all time.”
Michael Wilbon speaks to the media during Game 1 of the 2023 NBA Finals on June 1, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. (NBAE via Getty Images)
ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro also released a statement in support of Wilbon.
“Michael and his family have the full support of ESPN as he takes time to focus on his health and well-being. He is an important member of our ESPN team and widely respected by his peers, sports fans and many others in our industry.
“We are here for Michael every step of the way and look forward to welcoming him back whenever he is ready.”
Honestly, knowing Wilbon a little and having followed his career, he would despise the time we’ve already spent writing about his ad. He will come back.
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Toss Up: Will Wilbon be back before or after the average time frame for someone dealing with these complications?
Long before.
Gn sports
