Craig Sager dies at the age of 65 after long fight with leukemia

Craig Sager passed away at 65 on Thursday after an extended fight with leukemia. The TNT broadcaster known for his flamboyant suits and his ability to always make us smile was beloved by everyone in the NBA community and beyond.

Sager underwent his third bone marrow transplant in a three-year span last August, which his son Craig Sager Jr. said was an unprecedented operation.

This is Turner Sports’ statement about Sager’s passing.

”Craig Sager was a beloved member of the Turner family for more than three decades and he has been a true inspiration to all of us. There will never be another Craig Sager. His incredible talent, tireless work ethic and commitment to his craft took him all over the world covering sports.

“While he will be remembered fondly for his colorful attire and the TNT sideline interviews he conducted with NBA coaches and players, it’s the determination, grace and will to live he displayed during his battle with cancer that will be his lasting impact. Our thoughts and prayers are with Craig’s wife, Stacy, and the entire Sager family during this difficult time. We will forever be Sager Strong.”

TNT had a beautiful tribute video, too.

Sager graduated from Northwestern University and spent decades as a sideline reporter, first with CNN and then for TNT, TBS and CBS. Sager was awarded the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2016 ESPYS, and his acceptance speech was wonderful.

Sager’s son, Craig Jr., honored his father with this video.

We’ll always remember the joy Sager brought to NBA broadcasts, whether it was his sideline interviews with Gregg Popovich or a glittery bizarro suit jacket that we can’t even find words to describe. One thing I’ll remember is that I attended about a dozen sporting events this year that Sager was also at, and he received a standing ovation at every single one.

Rest in peace, Craig Sager. We’ll always be Sager Strong.