
John Feinstein Passes Away at 69: A Renowned Sportswriter's Legacy
The sportswriting world mourns the loss of John Feinstein, an award-winning author and broadcaster known for his deep insights into college basketball.
John Feinstein, a celebrated sportswriter and broadcaster, passed away at the age of 69 at his brother’s home in McLean, Virginia. An influential voice in sports media, Feinstein was known for chronicling college basketball with remarkable depth and clarity.
Feinstein contributed to the Washington Post until just a day before his death, where his final column focused on Michigan State coach Tom Izzo.
Among his numerous literary accomplishments, his first book, A Season on the Brink, remains his most iconic, providing an inside look at renowned coach Bob Knight from Indiana University. This work not only captivated readers but also spent 17 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.
Beyond his written contributions, Feinstein’s television and radio presence, including shows on CBS Sports Radio, broadened his impact within the sports community.
In an interview, Feinstein remarked, “I can’t think of anything better on a winter night than to be in a college gym where the place is rocking, and the fans are really into it.”
He received the Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013, a testament to his enduring legacy in sports journalism.