Dan Hicks, the celebrated broadcaster whose voice became synonymous with major golf tournaments and the Olympic Games, died on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. He was 64 years old. His family confirmed the news in a statement, noting that Hicks passed away following an acute illness.
For decades, Hicks served as the primary play-by-play announcer for the PGA Tour on NBC Sports. His calm and distinctive tenor guided audiences through some of the most significant moments in golf history. He joined the NBC network in 1992 and assumed the lead broadcaster role in 2000, a position he held for over twenty-five years.
During his tenure, Hicks called numerous major championships, Players Championships, Ryder Cups, and Presidents Cups. He worked alongside legendary golfers and colleagues such as Johnny Miller and Paul Azinger. His presence at these events made him a familiar and trusted figure for fans across the country.
One of the most memorable moments in his career occurred during the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. With Tiger Woods facing a critical birdie putt on the final hole to force a playoff against Rocco Mediate, Hicks allowed the tension to build before delivering his now-famous line: "Expect anything different?" This call is widely regarded as one of the greatest in the history of the sport.
Hicks' broadcasting career extended beyond golf. He also provided commentary for Notre Dame football games and the Olympic Games. In the same year as the 2008 U.S. Open, he was on the call for the Beijing Olympics, where he narrated the historic comeback by the U.S. men's swimming team, led by Michael Phelps.
Hannah Storm, Hicks' wife of more than 30 years, expressed the family's grief in a statement. She described him as a devoted husband, a loving father to their three daughters, and a cherished friend. Storm noted that Hicks was a unique individual who brought energy and laughter to any room he entered. She highlighted his endless kindness, thoughtfulness, and humor, stating that he made everyone feel important.
Sean McManus, the chairman of CBS Sports, also paid tribute to Hicks. McManus described him as an integral part of iconic sporting events over the last three decades. He emphasized that beyond his professional achievements, Hicks was a true gentleman and an exceptional husband, father, and friend.
NBC Sports colleagues Rick Cordella, Sam Flood, and Molly Solomon issued a joint statement praising Hicks for his 34 years with the network. They called him an extraordinary storyteller who elevated big moments in sports. The statement highlighted his blend of knowledge, style, enthusiasm, and humor, which entertained fans for decades. They also noted that off the air, Hicks was a generous person who welcomed teammates with smiles, jokes, and words of encouragement.
The family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they have received during this difficult time. Hicks is survived by his wife, Hannah Storm, and their three daughters, Hannah, Ellery, and Riley. His legacy remains etched in the memories of millions of fans who grew up listening to his commentary.
Hicks' death marks the end of an era for sports broadcasting. His ability to capture the essence of competitive sports while maintaining a warm and engaging demeanor set a standard for the profession. Tributes continue to pour in from across the sports world, reflecting the profound impact he had on both the industry and the people he knew.
