ESPN Radio NBA analyst and Basketball HOFer Jack Ramsay Thursday said that he "needs to begin immediate medical treatment and his broadcasting career is likely over," according to Barry Jackson of the MIAMI HERALD. The 88-year-old Ramsay "declined to discuss the nature of his medical condition." He was "diagnosed with prostate cancer" in '99 and "received treatment, several years ago, for melanomas 'all over my body.'” Ramsay said that the "looming treatment will prevent him from working the remainder of the NBA playoffs, including The Finals, for ESPN Radio." He had been "scheduled to announce" Game 3 of the Heat-Bulls Eastern Conference Semifinal on Friday. Ramsay said that he is "not planning to do broadcast work next season, barring a change of heart." Ramsay: “I’m not enjoying it like I used to, and travel is difficult. Before this season, I did the games mostly with Jim Durham, and then he passed away after the first game this season. ... I enjoyed working with him, which is why I extended my (stay with ESPN). I will miss the association with the players and coaches. It has been a great ride.” ESPN "hasn't named a replacement, but Chris Mullin will fill in Friday" (MIAMIHERALD.com, 5/9).
