'I’m on the Road to Recovery:' Collapse of NCAA Tourney Ref Bert Smith Caused by Blood Clot

Posted Apr 20, 2021
Bert Smith just now finished returning the text messages. There were 500 of them. There were ones from coaches, ones from colleagues, ones from family. We’re praying for you. We’re rooting for you. Get better. They poured into Smith’s phone after he collapsed on national television during Gonzaga’s eventual win over USC in a men's Elite Eight game. (Sports Illustrated)

Related: Other News

2026 NCAA baseball tournament: Super regionals schedule, channels
The four teams making their debuts in supers are No. 15 Kansas, Cal Poly, Little Rock and Troy. Both Kansas and Troy will be hosting,...
Thu Jun 4, 2026

Virginia Tech receives historic $75M donation, mostly for athletics
Virginia Tech has received a historic $75 million donation, with the majority directed toward athletics, the school announced. The record donation, made anonymously by a...
Thu Jun 4, 2026

Michael Jordan’s NASCAR team adds Corey Heim to 2027 Cup Series lineup
Corey Heim is going to get a chance to be a full-time driver in the NASCAR Cup Series. 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by UNC...
Thu Jun 4, 2026

ACC Announces 2026 Bowl Season Schedule
The ACC, ESPN, and Bowl Season announced the 2026 bowl schedule Wednesday. The ACC’s 2026 postseason lineup includes 17 possible bowl destinations, highlighted by 15...
Wed Jun 3, 2026