The sports media world is mourning the loss of one of its most influential and respected figures, Barry Sacks, who died on Sunday, February 12, 2023, at the age of 63. Sacks was a former ESPN producer and executive who played a key role in launching and developing some of the network’s most popular shows, such as SportsCenter and College GameDay. He was also a beloved professor at Quinnipiac University’s School of Communications, where he taught television production and mentored hundreds of students. But what was the cause of death of Barry Sacks? How did he die so suddenly and unexpectedly? Here is what we know so far.
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A Massive Heart Attack
According to Dick Vitale, a longtime ESPN colleague and friend of Sacks, the cause of death was a massive heart attack that occurred on Saturday, February 11, 2023. Sacks was playing pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, with some friends at a local club when he collapsed on the court. He was rushed to the hospital, where he received medical attention and care, but he could not recover from the cardiac arrest. He passed away early Sunday morning, leaving behind his wife, two children, and many other family members and friends.
A Healthy and Active Lifestyle
The news of Sacks’ death came as a shock to many who knew him, as he was known to be a healthy and active person who enjoyed sports and exercise. He was an avid golfer who participated in several charity tournaments, including the annual Dean Maragos golf outing, where he won more raffles than anyone else. He also loved playing pickleball, which he described as “a great workout” and “a lot of fun” in an interview with Quinnipiac University’s student newspaper in 2022. He said that he played pickleball three times a week with his friends and that it helped him stay in shape and relieve stress.
A Legacy of Excellence and Kindness
Sacks’ death has left a huge void in the sports media industry, where he was regarded as a pioneer and a leader. He joined ESPN in 1982 as one of its first producers and worked there for 34 years until he was laid off in 2016. During his tenure at ESPN, he created and produced some of the most iconic and successful shows in sports television history, such as SportsCenter, the flagship news program that revolutionized sports coverage; College GameDay, the preeminent college football show that featured live broadcasts from different campuses every week; and the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun, the first women’s professional basketball team to be owned by a media company. He won several awards for his work, including Emmys, Peabodys, and Cable ACEs.
But more than his achievements and accolades, Sacks was remembered as a generous and compassionate person who cared deeply about others. He was always willing to help his colleagues, regardless of their position or background. He was also passionate about teaching and inspiring the next generation of sports journalists. After leaving ESPN, he joined Quinnipiac University’s School of Communications as an instructor in 2017. He taught courses on television production, sports media, and storytelling. He also served as a mentor and advisor to many students who looked up to him for his expertise and experience. He was well-loved by his students and fellow faculty members for his enthusiasm and humor.
Tributes Pour In
As soon as the news of Sacks’ death broke out, tributes poured in from his former colleagues, friends, students, and fans on social media. Many expressed their sadness and disbelief over his passing. They also shared their memories and appreciation for his work and personality. Here are some of the messages that were posted online:
- “Barry Sacks was one of the best people I ever worked with at ESPN. He was smart, creative, funny, kind & always had your back. He taught me so much about TV & life. I’m heartbroken by his passing. My thoughts & prayers are with his family & friends.” – Rece Davis, ESPN host
- “Barry Sacks was one of my favorite people at ESPN. He was always upbeat & positive & had a great sense of humor. He was also a brilliant producer who made College GameDay what it is today. I’m devastated by his loss. Rest in peace, my friend.” – Kirk Herbstreit, ESPN analyst
- “Barry Sacks was more than just a professor to me. He was a mentor, a role model, and a friend. He taught me everything I know about TV production and sports media. He always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and supported me along the way. He was the best teacher I ever had. I’m going to miss him so much.” – Jessica Smith, Quinnipiac University student
- “Barry Sacks was a legend in the sports media world. He created some of the most iconic and influential shows in sports history. He was also a wonderful human being who treated everyone with respect and kindness. He was a true inspiration to me and many others. I’m honored to have known him and worked with him. He will be greatly missed.” – Bob Ley, ESPN anchor
Conclusion
Barry Sacks was a remarkable person who left a lasting impact on the sports media industry and the Quinnipiac University community. He died of a heart attack on February 12, 2023, at the age of 63. He is survived by his wife, two children, and many other family members and friends. He will be remembered for his excellence and kindness, and his legacy will live on through his work and his students. Rest in peace, Barry Sacks. You will never be forgotten.
