Dan Hicks, the longtime NBC Sports broadcaster whose distinctive voice accompanied millions of viewers through some of the most memorable moments in American sports, has died at the age of 64. He passed away in Connecticut late Wednesday, November 11, 2026, following an acute illness, according to his family and NBC Sports.
His sudden and unexpected death has left his wife of more than 30 years, ESPN broadcaster Hannah Storm, and their three daughters grieving an immeasurable loss.
Storm announced the news Thursday, November 12, describing her husband as a devoted partner, loving father, and cherished friend. She said their family was heartbroken and remembered Hicks for the energy, humor, and kindness he brought into the lives of people around him.
Hannah Storm Pays Tribute to Her Husband
In a family statement, Storm expressed the shock and heartbreak surrounding her husband’s passing.
She remembered Hicks as someone who made people feel valued and appreciated, describing his warmth and generosity as qualities that extended far beyond his professional life.
The couple shared more than three decades of marriage and raised three daughters together: Hannah, Ellery, and Riley. Storm’s tribute reflected the profound loss facing their family and the support they have received from friends, colleagues, and loved ones.
Dan Hicks’ Career at NBC Sports
Hicks joined NBC Sports in June 1992 after beginning his television broadcasting career at CNN in 1989. Over more than three decades, he became one of the network’s most familiar play-by-play voices, covering golf, Olympic competition, Notre Dame football, and other major sporting events.
His career included assignments at the Olympics, PGA Tour tournaments, and major golf championships. His ability to communicate the excitement and significance of sporting moments helped make him a trusted voice for generations of viewers.
A Respected Voice in Golf Broadcasting
Golf became one of Hicks’ most prominent assignments. He worked as a tower announcer before becoming NBC’s lead golf play-by-play broadcaster in 2000.
During his career, he called 27 U.S. Opens, 23 U.S. Women’s Opens, and multiple Ryder Cups. He also covered 27 tournament victories by Tiger Woods.
One of his most memorable broadcasts came during the 2008 U.S. Open, when Woods made a dramatic putt to force a playoff against Rocco Mediate. Hicks’ call became part of the lasting television memory of that championship.
He also worked alongside respected golf analyst Johnny Miller, helping viewers follow some of the sport’s biggest tournaments and defining moments.
Olympic Swimming and the Historic Beijing Games
Beyond golf, Hicks became widely recognized for his Olympic broadcasting work, particularly in swimming.
He called swimming at eight consecutive Summer Olympic Games and developed a familiar partnership with swimming analyst Rowdy Gaines.
One of the defining moments of his career came at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when he called the United States men’s 4×100-meter freestyle relay victory alongside Gaines. The dramatic race, featuring Jason Lezak’s remarkable anchor leg, became one of the most memorable moments of the Games.
Hicks also covered Olympic skiing and helped bring major international sporting competitions into homes across the country.
Notre Dame Football and His Final Broadcasting Season
Hicks remained active in broadcasting at the time of his death. He was in his seventh season calling Notre Dame football games and had been expected to cover the network’s upcoming matchup against Boston College.
His sudden passing means the familiar voice that accompanied countless college football weekends, golf tournaments, and Olympic competitions will be deeply missed by viewers and colleagues alike.
NBC Sports Colleagues Remember Dan Hicks
NBC Sports executives Rick Cordella, Sam Flood, and Molly Solomon paid tribute to Hicks, describing him as an exceptional broadcaster, colleague, and friend.
They praised his knowledge, storytelling ability, enthusiasm, and humor, while emphasizing that his character away from the cameras was just as memorable. They recalled a colleague who welcomed people with a smile, a joke, or an encouraging word.
Versant CEO Mark Lazarus also remembered Hicks as a loyal friend and devoted family man. His tribute reflected a relationship that extended beyond their professional association at NBC Sports.
Dan Hicks’ Family and Survivors
Dan Hicks is survived by his wife, Hannah Storm, and their three daughters, Hannah, Ellery, and Riley.
For his family, his passing is not simply the loss of a celebrated broadcaster but the loss of a beloved husband and father whose presence shaped their everyday lives.
His colleagues and viewers will remember the sporting moments he helped bring to life. His family will carry forward the memories of the man they loved beyond the television cameras.
Dan Hicks’ Cause of Death
Hicks died following an acute illness, according to the statement released by his family. His wife described his death as sudden and unexpected.
Further medical details about the illness have not been publicly disclosed.
A Lasting Legacy in Sports Broadcasting
Dan Hicks leaves behind a broadcasting legacy spanning more than three decades. From major golf championships and Olympic swimming to Notre Dame football, his voice became part of the experience for millions of sports fans.
His contributions to NBC Sports and his warmth toward colleagues will remain part of how he is remembered.
Heartfelt condolences go out to Hannah Storm, their daughters, extended family members, friends, and colleagues mourning his passing.
May his family find strength in the love and support surrounding them and comfort in the many memories they shared.
Rest in peace, Dan Hicks. His voice and legacy will remain part of sports broadcasting history.