Craig Sager isn't reporting from the sidelines during these NBA playoffs.  As was reported Friday, Sager has leukemia.

The TNT reporter, known for his colorful suits, was missed.

Sager issued a statement through TNT:

"My favorite time of year – city to city, round by round, 40 games in 40 nights.  A dramatic turn has matched me with acute myeloid leukemia.  From the sidelines to being sidelined, 40 veins and 40 electrolytes.  Too bad, I had some probing questions for Pop."

For the matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, Sager's son, Craig Sager Jr., subbed on the sidelines quizzing coach Gregg Popovich at the end of a tied third quarter.

Popovich, who answered Sager Jr.'s questions, turned to the camera and sent Sager a heartfelt message pleading for a quick recovery.

It was a surprise spot to not only all the viewers, but Sager himself.

My dad had no idea I was even in San Antonio until EJ announced it at tipoff. Knowing that made this so much more fun for everyone behind it

Keep Reading

Jason Collins drives against Charlotte Bobcats Kwame Brown (right) during the first half at Philips Arena in Atlanta on Friday, Dec. 17, 2010. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Featured

Delta employees are under investigation because of content “related to the recent murder of activist Charlie Kirk” that “went well beyond healthy, respectful debate,” CEO Ed Bastian wrote in a companywide memo Friday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez