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BORN
1951
DIED
2016
Craig Sager Obituary
Turner Sports announced his death from leukemia Thursday.
"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," Turner President David Levy said in a statement. "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."
Many people took to social media to pay tribute to Sager including the U.S. vice president, NBA players, and broadcasting colleagues.
Vice President Joe Biden: "Craig Sager died as he lived — with courage, passion, perseverance. Fearless and hopeful, a real hero."
Kobe Bryant: “'Time is simply how you live your life.' - Craig Sager. So grateful for the time you shared with all of us. RIP my friend."
Kevin Durant: "Long Live Craig. We love you! Rest in Paradise."
Chris Bosh: "R.I.P to Craig Sager. A true definition of a brave, charismatic, stylish, strong man. A true legend to the game of basketball."
Dennis Rodman: "Craig Sager thanks for saving my life when I was in dire need of help in Detroit back in 1993. Condolences to your family. RIP my friend."
Greg Anthony: "There is just no better person, colleague and friend...my thoughts and prayers are with his family and our Turner sports family."
Sager worked as a sideline reporter covering NBA games for TNT for almost 25 years. He announced this past March that his leukemia, which was first diagnosed in 2014, was no longer in remission. Doctors told Sager that his prognosis was three to six months to live, but "I am receiving the best treatment in the world and I remain fully confident I will win this battle."
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In a statement, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said teams will observe a moment of silence in Sager's memory.
"I - along with the entire NBA family - am deeply saddened by the passing of Craig Sager," Silver said. "Craig was as vital to the NBA as the players and coaches. A true original and an essential voice on Turner Sports' NBA coverage for 26 seasons, Craig chronicled some of the most memorable moments in league history and was a ubiquitous presence with his splashy suits and equally colorful personality." Sager was known for his colorful suits that frequently featured checkered patterns. He was much beloved by NBA players and coaches.
Through an agreement between TNT and ESPN, Sager worked the sideline at an NBA finals game for the first time. He worked at this year’s game 6 between the Cavaliers and the Warriors.
Lebron James said to Sager during an interview after Game 6, “First of all, let me ask you a question. How in the hell do you go 30-plus years without getting a Finals game? That don't make no sense.”
"But I'm happy to see you, man. Much love and respect. I'm happy I was able to witness it in front of these fans. We really appreciate you."
Sager was born June 29, 1951, in Batavia, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. He graduated from Northwestern University.
Before he worked for TNT, Sager worked for CNN and was a co-anchor of “CNN Sports Tonight.”
Sager and his wife, Stacy, a former Chicago Bulls dancer, have two children together, Riley and Ryan. Sager also has three children from a previous marriage, including son Craig Sager Jr.
123 Entries
April 8, 2020
My condolences to the family. I remember, him reporting with the NBA, I remember him interviewing the players.
So happy they created a Sagar Award. May the God of Comfort. continue to comfort the family
May 5, 2018
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Michael Reibly
February 13, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family
Thanks for being fresh
Michael Reibly
February 13, 2017
God bless you Craig
Thanks for the memories
How you can show support
MA
January 30, 2017
May God give you peace as you learn to adjust to life without your beloved.
December 30, 2016
So sorry for your loss. May Almighty God grant you peace as you cope with your loss. Jer 29:11
December 22, 2016
To the family, so sorry to hear of your loss this is a sad time for you and also everyone the knew him. One day we can look forward to the future with confidence that we will be able to see our loved ones again that pass away.
Ed Rowan
December 22, 2016
Thanks Craig for the great memories I and others from St. Louis shared with you in Sarasota and for several years after that in the '70s. You were destined to do great things and you certainly did. You touched so many people in your life that your family may not even be aware of. We will all miss you. Until we meet again. Ed and all of the St. Louis crowd.
Jayla Satterfield
December 22, 2016
I send my condolences to the family of Mr. Craig Sager. Our thoughts of peace and prayers are with your family and friends during this difficult time. Jeremiah 29:11,12
R.M.
December 21, 2016
My most sincere condolences to all the family and friends of Mr. Sager. May all the wonderful memories with your loved one help you heal your broken hearts. Mr. Sager left an impact on a lot of people for his positive attitude and his great courage. He will be greatly missed. I wish that our Heavenly Father comforts you until you meet again. Ps 55:22
Ralph C
December 21, 2016
May all those deeply affected have hope that Craig will be recovered.
Hosea 13:14
December 21, 2016
I am so sorry for your loss,but God promises to soon bring death to nothing @1Co15:26.
CW Forest Park GA.
Risa Lott
December 21, 2016
Your swag was amazing. You will continue to shine in the sports world. Rest peacefully Craig Sager.
James Stevenson
December 20, 2016
Craig Sager, l really admired you as a sports commentator your work was outstanding. Above all i AM inspired by your fight for life. Your espy speech will forever be remembered.R.I.P..
Andre Smith
December 20, 2016
My condolences to the Sager Family ,I will miss Craig when I watch NBA on TNT especially when he's on sideline. ! And especially with his Savy dress attire! Rip.!
SAM HOWARD
December 20, 2016
RIP CRAIG SAGER
Heather Felt
December 20, 2016
My condolences for your loss of Craig. May you seek God during this time of heartbreak as he is with those seeking comfort.
Q. T.
December 20, 2016
Dear Sager Family,
I want to send my condolences to you and his TNT family. Craig was the light that shined bright at the NBA games. Always a smile on his face which was as colorful as his clothes. I Pray God gives you peace and comfort knowing he has his loving arms around Craig. Pain may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
December 20, 2016
Sager you will be missed, you truly lived life out loud . You are a true example of living today likes it's your last. May you now rest in peace...
Dana D. Powell
Peach Payne
December 20, 2016
Although he was a celebrity in his own right, I had opportunities to talk with Craig on various occasion whether it would be at a kids tennis match, swim meet, church or school function. One of the most interesting tidbits he revealed about himself was he kept all of his rejection letters he received throughout his life. This helped motivate him to succeed and succeed he did! Prayers to The Sager Family. May the wonderful memories you have get you through this difficult time.
Revita Harrington
December 20, 2016
Craig moved from shocking me with the outfits to "must see" TV. Then I feel like I came to know, admire and respect him like many others did.
We'll sure miss him but, heaven will be much more colorful with Craig there.
God bless and keep his family and friends in his care.
Terrie Render
December 20, 2016
To the family, I didn't know him personally, but every time I seen him on TV, I lived one more day. Sometimes I thought life was seeping away from me, but he gave me strength to face another day with his contagious personality and colorful wardrobe. Trust in THE LORD, that Craig is making heaven that special place. GOD BLESS!!!!
R.C..
December 20, 2016
To The Family Of Craig Sager
My condolences to the family on the loss of your dear beloved one. May the God of all comfort,comfort you and grant you peace and strengthen you now and in the days ahead.
Hyla Rumper
December 20, 2016
It will take a long time before we forget that voice at the side line of a NBA game. Craig you will be missed. To your family I send my condolences.
Marilyn Harrod
December 19, 2016
God gave us a beautiful BLESSING named Craig Sager 65 years ago! Although I never met you Craig; I admired your courage during your battle with cancer and your will to live. I believe you won the battle because it seems you lived every day to the fullest! Thank you for the excitement of waiting each week to check out your colorful taste in clothes! It was always worth the wait! Rest in Peace in Heaven as you did on Earth!
Kimberly Johnson
December 19, 2016
Scott Goodman
December 19, 2016
I didn't know him personally but was a very big fan of his. He will be missed.
Renee Carter
December 19, 2016
You will be truly missed. RIP!
Lynn Scott
December 19, 2016
Did not know Craig sager personally but I am saddened because we all watched him fight and perservere against this disease. Prayers for his wife,children and his TNT,tbs and abc family. May God continue to comfort you all as only he can do. Sincerely Lynn Scott? Mesa,Az.
Caw
December 19, 2016
Offering our deepest condolences to the Sager family and friends
M. Leary
December 19, 2016
My condolences to the family and friends of Craig Sager.
December 19, 2016
It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.
C. Kennedy
December 19, 2016
God bless the Sager family, give them peace and comfort to endure their loss.
Sad Fan
December 19, 2016
I've never before felt such a loss at the passing of someone I didn't actually know personally. Craig's ability to remain upbeat and strong throughout his illness was truly inspirational.
December 18, 2016
so saddened to hear of the passing of such a wonderful heartfelt man, who never gave up...an inspiration to so many here on earth..and I'm sure in heaven..just simply loved him as a loving devoted human being..his character just shined,admired his never ending strength and courage..Thank you for all you inspired..To the entire Sager family.you were all so blessed to have had such a beautiful loving soul in your lives..We will all meet again,God will keep you strong through this difficult time..I will miss everything about Mr. Sager!Gods blessings and love to you all,sincerely.my prayers are with you who loved him so dearly..
Mayor Shaterral Johnson
December 18, 2016
Prayers and Condolences sent to The Sager Family! May Craig Forever RIP! We you in Louisiana! He was such a brave and Courageous Man.
Lisa Kirby
December 18, 2016
Love u MR sager
Greg Swanson
December 18, 2016
What memories! Delt house spring break in Sarasota with your parents Kentucky Derby days and so so much more. Can't begin to tell you how proud I am to have known you and called you a friend. RIP brother. You'll never be forgotten
BROOKLYN BUFORD
December 18, 2016
TO THE SAGER FAMILY
I'M SO SORRY HEAR ABOUT THE LOST OF CRAIG. I WAS TRULY A FAN OF HIS WORK AND SUITS ON THE SIDE LINE HE HAS DEFINITELY LEFT HIS STAMP IN THE INDUSTRY.
DURING THIS TIME WE CAN LOOK TO OUR HEAVENLY FATHER JEHOVAH TO HELP US GET THROUGH THESE TIME AND REMEBERING THE PROMISES HE GAVE US THROUGH HIS SON CHRIST JESUS SHED BLOOD AND THAT IS THE RESURRECTION. ACT 24:15 " THERE WILL BE A RESURRECTION"
Iris Goodgold
December 18, 2016
I am bereft, I prayed everyday for him and burst into tears the moment I saw he died. I did write to MD Anderson with the quote ' they say 3 times a charm' regarding his third bone marrow transplant to give him encouragement, apparently it got through. It made me feel better. Now I am beyond sad and full of heartbreak. He was special and irreplaceable. My heart breaks for what he endured and for his lovely family. They should always know his memory ' will be for a blessing' a NY fan for life.
December 18, 2016
My deepest condolences to the family. May our loving Heavenly Father grant you peace and comfort you during this time of sadness.
Tommy Stephens
December 18, 2016
Gone, but surely not forgotten! R.I.P. Craig!
Patti Mills
December 17, 2016
You dont know me and I never got the honor of meeting your husband but listening to him speak and his remarkable outlook on life is changing the way I now look at life. He was an amazing man and im sure he has a spot right next to God in Heaven. My tears and prayers go out to all of you and your family. I know he is smiling down on all of you.
STARKING ALLAH
December 17, 2016
RIP..CRAIG TNT JUST WON'T BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU ON THE SIDELINES...
James Rudisell
December 17, 2016
I would like to start by offering my sincerest condolences to Mr. Sager's wife, children, loved ones and to all who knew him. I did not personally know Mr. Sager. Like so many, I was an admirer of his work in the NBA. When I first heard of Mr. Sager's passing I just became very emotional. Couldn't help it. That is just the way this news hit me. Mr. Sager was the absolute consummate professional. He was truly the best. Anything said less would be most disingenuous. It is one thing to have people that know you, love you, but it says much about that person to be loved by so many who did not know you. Mr. Sager was this type of man. He is and will always be missed. That is a fact. May you Rest In Peace Mr. Sager.
Sincerely James Rudisell
Annette Foy
December 17, 2016
God you all
December 17, 2016
So sorry to hear of your loss, but take comfort and knowing that our love ones have a hope. (John 17:3)
mary and John Murphy
December 17, 2016
We will always remember you.
Reset in peace Mary and John Murphy,Carpinteria,Ca
Gregg Deason
December 17, 2016
Craig spoke to our speech class at Edison Community College in Fort Myers. He was full of life and encouraged us to succeed. Thoughts and prayers to Craig's wife and family.
December 17, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the family during your time of sorrow take comfort in knowing that God will become a secure refuge for the oppressed. A secure refuge in times of distress. Psalms 9:9
Charles A
December 17, 2016
Offering our deepest condolences to the Sager family and friends in your hour of sorrow.
December 17, 2016
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
Mary Kay Willson
December 17, 2016
Thank you for all the laughs, bear hugs and great times.... the world is a bit more dim today as you were a bright light! We will miss you, but the memories will forever burn bright and your example will continue to shine Sager Strong.
December 17, 2016
God called you home, but you did a phenomenal job here on earth....Rest in heaven
Savan Bhakta
December 17, 2016
Craig Sager there are so many great things to say about you, but I'll keep it short. You meant so much to the sports industry and had a positive impact on so many people's lives. You were truly a Legend. We will miss you dearly. Gone but never forgotten. Rest In Peace.
Robert Adams
December 17, 2016
You " MADE YOUR MARK " to be sure ( loud ) ! I love your work . R I P
December 17, 2016
Craig's Family,
Our condolences and prayers to the family at this difficult time. Treasure his memories. He is missed by people all around the world. He was truly loved by all. May the God who gives peace be with all of you.-RO.15:33
Connie W
December 17, 2016
You are already missed by so many. i am continuing my fight against aml, also diagnosed in 2014, and i will keep your memory with me while i am still alive. i know what you endured. condolences to your family.
Gene
December 17, 2016
R.I.P Craig sager was an inspiration to all of us great sidelines reporter for Turner sports a courageous man his legacy is like no other he will be missed but certainly not forgotten to the sager family my thoughts prayers are with you #sagerstrong
Gary White
December 17, 2016
Obviously I have never met Craig Sager personally, but I have seen him on TV interviewing all types of celebrities and people in general and I admired him personally for the way he went about his craft. He appeared to be the most genuine sincere sideline reporter that I have ever seen in my life. From his great humor to his signature wardrobe. I have no doubt that he was a great husband, father, and friend to many people no matter who they were or what they did for a living. Rest in peace and may God comfort your family during this difficult time.
J Doerter
December 17, 2016
RIP my friend. Condolences and prayers for the family. Those of us that knew you starting in the early days in KC will always have warm memories of you and your career. You lived out loud and gave it your all every day....even to the end. You lived and spoke your truth with humor and dignity always being you. God speed, God bless.
Scott Figaro
December 16, 2016
I didn't know Craig personally, But like the rest of the people around the world I loved his style. His style of reporting, his style of respecting others, his style of living, and his style of loving. Thanks for being YOU Craig Sager, YOU brought smiles to people around the world. You ARE a RARE breed and we were lucky to have you as long as we did. PEACE and LOVE to you Mr. Sager... R.I.P.
Scott Figaro
Isaac & Clara Rogers
December 16, 2016
Basketball reporting will never be as colorful as it was with the absence of Mr Sager being on the sideline. A unique man that possessed a unique style not just in clothing, but in the way he done his job. Rest in Peace Craig and May God grant your family abundant peace and strength during this time.
Annie C
December 16, 2016
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times you shared together as we celebrate a life well lived and loved by many. Psalms 90:10.
carlotta
December 16, 2016
May the God of all peace bring comfort the Sager family for the loss of their love one.
Tyler White
December 16, 2016
RIP peace Craig you are a true inspiration.
Felicia
December 16, 2016
We are so sorry for your loss. It doesn't matter how old we are when we die, we are never prepared . We will keep your family in our prayers.
Mitch W
December 16, 2016
My condolences to the Sager family, he will definitely be missed! A true icon, legend and inspiration to many around him and the world!
Paul Kosturos
December 16, 2016
God Bless you Mr.Sager, and God bless your loving family! Mr. Sager you were a true gentleman, Husband and Father! We will never forget you, may your memory be eternal!
Maxi Spisak
December 16, 2016
My prayers are with you Stacy and Family.
It was an honor and a pleasure doing Craig's
Make-Up for a quarter of a century with the
Turner Sports Family. I always enjoyed his colorful wardrobe conversations we had together for the TNT NBA Season...Craig was a WONDERFUL Sports Broadcaster. Miss you dearly. "KEEP SMILING" in Heaven CRAIG SAGER...
Maxi Spisak
December 16, 2016
My prayers are with you Stacy and Family.
It was an honor and a pleasure doing Craig's
Make-Up for a quarter of a century with the
Turner Sports Family. I always enjoyed his colorful wardrobe conversations we had together for the TNT NBA Season...Craig was a WONDERFUL Sports Broadcaster. Miss you dearly. "KEEP SMILING" in Heaven CRAIG SAGER...
Frank Rivera
December 16, 2016
To the Sager family our heart felt sympathies go out to the entire family may his soul rest in eternal peace God speed Craig. You fought like a true warrior you have inspired all never give up no matter the odds. You are in a special place now your job is done rest in peace my friend.
D Tyler
December 16, 2016
Sincere condolences to the Sager family. When you looked at him he was always smiling and very colorful, he had his own style of clothing and broadcasting, but it truly did make him unique. May your family draw comfort from the many friends and fans , memories that he accumulated over the years. And remember that we can all see him in paradise just as Jesus told the man that hung next to him Luke 23:43.
Adrian Barnette
December 16, 2016
We'll miss you !
Gerry Castellano
December 16, 2016
To Craig Sager and Family,
Dear Craig,
We miss you and loved your suits and ties!!! My son and I are saying prayers for you and your family. Rest now. You will always be in our hearts. God Bless you.
You are one of the nicest and kindest persons we have know.
Your friends ,
Gerry and Chris Castellano
P.s.
We will always think of you at the Phillips Arena, Atlanta
December 16, 2016
May it comfort you to know that God as well as others care about your loss at this time.
Sincerely
Norma Sanchez
December 16, 2016
Gone but not forgotten, Death leaves a heartache no one can heal only our powerful God above can, Love leaves memories no one can steal
Harry Simpson
December 16, 2016
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
December 16, 2016
so sorry for your loss
Tom Ellis
December 16, 2016
Sorry Craig, Jr. I loved having your Dad at baseball and softball games that i coached. God Bless.
Michael Small
December 16, 2016
Craig always told me he would win "Father of the Year". I know he did many times. My prayers to your family. Thank you for all your motivation in life and business. Rest in Peace.
Vicki Hicks
December 16, 2016
Craig was a class act and will be missed. Love leaves a memory no one can steal; earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. My condolences to the Sager Family.
Barbara Khan
December 16, 2016
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Craig Sager and I cried as the news came across my TV screen. As viewer of sports for 40 years of my 74 years of life, I grew to love Craig like a personal friend. He was a great human being and sports personnel. My viewing Basketball will never be the same absent of Craig's presence. GOD BLESS you Craig and your family! Barbara Khan of San Diego
Pamela Goodwin
December 16, 2016
He will be missed but never forgotten.
December 16, 2016
I am very saddened by this news. I would like to send my condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
PETER NAAB
December 16, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Sager family.
He made a difference in the sports world, NBA and life in general.
Adrian Barnette
December 16, 2016
We'll miss you !
December 16, 2016
Truly, there are many reasons to be humble. It is the right, the honest thing to be humble. It is the course of faith. It makes for good relations with God and with our family and friends. It is the course of wisdom. Above all, it is the course of love and brings true happiness.
Lisa Weiner
December 16, 2016
To Craig Sager,
You were an excellent sports commentar for the NBA. My prayers& thoughts go to your family& friends. Lisa Weiner
Al Ingalls
December 16, 2016
You were a real cool dude! Rest in Peace man...
JE Jackson
December 16, 2016
Mr. Sagers courage,positive attitude and strong faith were oustanding during his fight with lukemia. May the God of comfort and peace strengthen all who dearly loved him during this difficult time. Please accept my sincere condolences.
December 16, 2016
To the family of Craig:
Heartfelt condolences go to the Sager family during this Christmas season. He was one of a kind and the impact he left on the game of Basketball is something no fan will ever forget!
RIP Craig!
John P. Knapp
(A big time Craig Sager fan!)
The Seal of Our Inheritance
Dr. Charles L. Singleton
December 16, 2016
Craig Graham Sager, Sr.
Indeed Sir, your Rememberable voice and extraordinary sports reporting will forever stay with us for generations, yet to come.
In sincere sympathy, we, the 165 families, living in 21 states and overseas, are bereaving the loss of this legendary sideline sports reporter, Mr. Craig Sager.
Amen,
The Family Journal
December 16, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Richard Weaver
December 16, 2016
I had the pleasure to meet the man, and share a beer, when he was scouting the Sixer's 2001 playoff run. A fantastically engaging person. It felt like I was spending time with a friend.
An amazing sideline reporter, and courageous fighter. He will be truly missed.
Kevin Cantwell
December 16, 2016
My relationship with Craig goes back to the late 80's when I arrived at GT --Craig has always been honest and spoke his mind--a very good person who will be missed dearly!!!
Rest In Peace "My Friend"
Justin wood
December 16, 2016
rest in piece Brother your gonna be missed by Fans as well as the Game
D Black
December 16, 2016
My sincere heartfelt condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and your many wonderful, loving memories comfort you, and may our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and "make you firm". (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)
Victoria Morris
December 16, 2016
I am very sorry to the friends and family for the loss. Soon there will come a time when we will never have to grieve the loss of a loved one in death ever again. Ps37:9-11
VW
December 16, 2016
I am sorry to hear of your loss. May you find peace and solace in reflecting on the many memories you shared and in knowing that others are grieving with you because they too care. Our Heavenly Father will comfort you now and in the days to come if you turn to him in earnest, heartfelt prayer.
~With Sympathy
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