ESPN logo (Photo by Mike Windle/Getty Images for ESPN)
The world of sports media was dealt a devastating blow and has been plunged into mourning following the shocking death of longtime ESPN producer and statistician Howie Schwab.
Schwab, who starred in the network’s ‘Stump the Schwab’ show, passed away on Saturday at the age of 63. His cause of death was not disclosed.
SportsCenter broadcasted a tribute to Schwab on Saturday morning, while ESPN college basketball analyst Dick Vitale shared the shocking news on social media.
“OMG -just rec’d word that my buddy for several decades who helped me so much in my career Howie Schwab passed this morning,” Vitale tweeted. “Just received the news from his loving wife Suzie. May he RIP!” legendary.”
“So sad to learn of the passing of my loyal dedicated buddy Howie Schwab – he was recently at my home,” he shared later on. “Had various health issues but was feeling good when he visited.“
Vitale and several others posted their thoughts online. You can check some of them out below:
I’m my 2+ decades at ESPN Howie Schwab was on of the best teammates I ever had, was incredibly smart and great at his job, but was a better person, treated all with respect, a great friend. RIP Howie, you will be missed!!!
— Mike Golic (@golic) April 21, 2024
Howie Schwab Was The Man To Beat At ESPN
Howie Schwab (Photo by Shearer/WireImage)
While Howie Schwab spent most of his time behind the scenes at ESPN, having joined the network in 1987, he became the star of a game show hosted by the late Stuart Scott called ‘Stump the Schwab’ in 2004.
The show pitted various contestants against each other as they went head-to-head in sports trivia. The final challenge required them to beat Howie Schwab, who was known as an expert on all sports from every era.
It ran for four seasons before ending in 2006.
Schwab also made appearances during the nascent ‘First Take’ era. He left the company in 2013 before moving to FOX Sports, where he worked as a writer and consultant for ‘Sports Jeopardy!’
TotalProSports extends condolences to Howie Schwab’s family, friends, and loved ones.
R.I.P Howie Schwab – 1960-2024
