The world of sports broadcasting lost a giant this week, and Olympic skiing star Mikaela Shiffrin is among those feeling the loss most deeply. Dan Hicks, the legendary NBC Sports commentator, passed away suddenly at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy that spanned more than three decades and touched countless athletes and fans.
Hicks spent 34 years at NBC Sports, becoming the familiar voice behind some of the most memorable moments in golf, college football, and the Olympics. While his smooth, authoritative delivery made him a favorite among golf enthusiasts, it was his work at the Winter and Summer Games that resonated globally. For Shiffrin, Hicks was more than just a broadcaster—he was the soundtrack to her career's biggest triumphs.
On Thursday, Shiffrin took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute, revealing just how much Hicks meant to her. She specifically recalled his call during her gold-medal slalom run at the Milan-Cortina Olympics this past February, a moment that will forever be linked to his voice.
“It’s shocking and heartbreaking to hear that Dan Hicks has passed,” Shiffrin wrote. “Dan Hicks called every one of my Olympic races, from Sochi to Cortina, and his voice is etched into every one of those memories. He was professional, and impactful. He was always prepared and always let the moment shine. Ski racing was so lucky to have him. Sending all my love to Hannah, their girls and the NBC Olympics family. ‘Just get to the line.’ I’ll hear his voice shouting that forever. Thank you, Dan.”
Hicks’ longtime broadcast partner, Olympic gold medalist Rowdy Gaines, also shared an emotional statement, describing Hicks as both a professional anchor and a personal confidant. “My heart is broken. Danny wasn’t just my partner in the booth for eight Olympics. He was one of my closest friends, someone I trusted with everything, both in and out of that arena. He was the glue that held us all together at all of those Games. He made me laugh like no other person ever has,” Gaines said. “We shared thousands of races and a friendship that went way beyond the pool deck. I’ll miss his voice, his steadiness, and just having him next to me. My heart is with Hannah and his daughters. Love you so very much, partner.”
ESPN’s Jay Bilas echoed those sentiments, calling Hicks one of the “nicest, most genuine and caring human beings” in the business. The outpouring of grief from the sports world has been overwhelming, with many remembering Hicks not just for his professional excellence, but for his kindness and warmth behind the scenes.
Hicks’ sudden death has also prompted an investigation into the cause, though no official details have been released. Fans have been sharing their own memories and condolences, with many noting how NBC's live on-air tribute to Hicks left viewers in tears. The emotional weight of his loss is felt across every sport he covered, from the fairways of the PGA Tour to the ice of the Olympics.
For Shiffrin, the loss is deeply personal. Hicks was a constant presence in her Olympic journey, and his signature call of “Just get to the line” will forever echo in her mind. As she continues her career, she will carry that memory with her, a tribute to a man who gave so much to the sports he loved.
Our thoughts are with Hicks’ family, friends, and the entire NBC Sports family during this difficult time. His voice may be silent now, but its impact will never fade.
