Digger Phelps Cancer Free: ESPN Analyst Beats Disease For Second Time

Two months after revealing he was suffering from bladder cancer, ESPN college basketball analyst Digger Phelps now says he is cancer free.

Phelps, 71, said he learned of his good fate during a visit to the doctor earlier this week, making him a two-time cancer survivor. The former Notre Dame hoop’s coach previously beat prostate cancer.  

"A lot of relief," Phelps told CBS.com. "Our prayers have been answered."

And just in time. Phelps, who turns 72 on July 4th, leaves for Israel later this week to coach Team Canada in the Maccabiah Games.

Phelps credited early detection and having a courageous attitude with helping him overcome his illness.  "Fr. Hesburgh gave me one line as he blessed me before I went in for surgery. He said, 'Have the courage'.  That stuck with me," said Phelps. 

Phelps is the winningest coach in Notre Dame history, finishing with 393 victories over 20 seasons. He had 14 seasons of 20 wins or more and led the school to its only Final Four appearance in 1978.

Phelps most memorable game came in January of 1974, when he led the Fighting Irish to a thrilling 71070 win over top-ranked and unbeaten UCLA, ending the Bruins record 88-game winning streak. 

 

 

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