Legendary Kansas Broadcaster Bob Davis Dies Days After His Wife

Bob Davis, the iconic voice behind Kansas Jayhawks basketball and football for over three decades, has passed away at the age of 80. The heartbreaking news comes just a week after the death of his wife Linda, who had been his partner for more than fifty years. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.

Tributes poured in from across the sports world. Kansas basketball head coach Bill Self described Davis as both exceptional at his craft and deeply generous in spirit, saying, "Bob was not only superior at his craft, but he was also a terrific, humble and unselfish person that gave so much of himself to so many." Self added that the timing of Davis’ passing, so soon after Linda’s, made it even more devastating.

Davis' illustrious broadcasting career with Kansas began in 1984 and spanned decades, during which he became synonymous with the most iconic moments in the university’s sports history. He lent his voice to unforgettable events like the 1988 national championship team known as "Danny and the Miracles" and the 2008 championship team, remembered for "Mario's Miracle"—Mario Chalmers' legendary buzzer-beater that took the game against Memphis into overtime.

Over his career, Davis narrated eight Jayhawks trips to the Final Four, six football bowl games, and thousands of regular-season basketball and football games. His partnership with broadcasting legend Max Falkenstien, who retired after 60 years and passed away in 2019, became a cherished era in Kansas sports history.

Former Kansas and North Carolina coach Roy Williams called Davis a "KU giant," remarking on his deep love for the university and his invaluable support during Williams' early coaching days. "He set the bar for all those I worked with later," Williams said.

Beyond his work with Kansas, Davis showcased his versatility by calling the women’s Final Four for CBS six times and spent 16 years covering Kansas City Royals games. His exceptional contributions earned him the title of Kansas Sportscaster of the Year an impressive 14 times.

Davis is survived by his son Steven, daughter-in-law Katie, and four grandchildren. His legacy, marked by a voice that brought life to countless sports moments, will forever resonate with fans and colleagues alike.