John Feinstein, bestselling author and Washington Post sportswriter, dead at 68

The Passing of a Legend: John Feinstein (1954-2023)

The sports world is mourning the loss of a titan in journalism and storytelling. John Feinstein, a revered sportswriter, columnist, and bestselling author, passed away on Thursday at the age of 68. Feinstein’s death occurred at his brother Robert’s home in McLean, Virginia. While the cause of his passing has not been disclosed, his legacy as one of the most influential voices in sports journalism remains undeniable. Feinstein was a fixture at The Washington Post for decades, beginning his career there in 1977 as a night police reporter before transitioning to sports, where he would make his indelible mark. Just one day before his death, he filed a column for the Post about Michigan State head basketball coach Tom Izzo, a testament to his dedication to his craft until the very end.

A Career Built on Insight and Storytelling

Feinstein’s journey into sports journalism was not straightforward. He began his career at The Washington Post as a night police reporter, but his talent for storytelling and deep sourcing soon led him to the sports beat. Over the years, he became known for his ability to craft compelling narratives that delved into the personalities, struggles, and triumphs of athletes, coaches, and sports executives. Feinstein’s work extended far beyond the Post; he contributed to ESPN, NPR, and the Golf Channel, and even hosted shows on SiriusXM. His ability to connect with readers and listeners through his unique blend of insight and storytelling established him as a household name in the world of sports.

Feinstein’s most iconic work, however, came in the form of books. He authored more than 40 titles, many of which became bestsellers. His magnum opus, Season on the Brink, released in 1986, remains the bestselling basketball book of all time. The book was the result of a bold decision: Feinstein took a year-long sabbatical from the Post to follow the 1985 Indiana Hoosiers and their controversial head coach, Bob Knight. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture the intensity and complexity of Knight’s coaching style made the book a masterpiece. It spent an impressive 17 weeks as the No. 1 bestseller and was later adapted into an ESPN TV film in 2002.

A Legacy of Excellence and Influence

Feinstein’s writing career was a testament to his versatility and passion. In addition to Season on the Brink, he wrote books on a wide range of sports, from football to golf, and even explored the lesser-known stories of Ivy League athletics in The Ancient Eight, his 50th book, published just last year. Feinstein’s ability to balance thorough research with engaging storytelling earned him a place as a 23-time New York Times bestseller. His work transcended sports, offering readers a deeper understanding of the human side of competition.

In November, Feinstein was set to embark on a new chapter in his career. He had joined Longwood University as a broadcaster and teacher, where he would provide color commentary for ESPN+ broadcasts of men’s basketball games. This role would have allowed him to share his wealth of knowledge and passion for sports with a new generation of athletes and fans. Feinstein’s impact on sports journalism is evident in the countless writers and broadcasters he inspired, as well as the awards and accolades he accumulated over the years, including inductions into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame.

A Life of Passion and Purpose

John Feinstein’s passing leaves a void in the world of sports journalism, but his contributions will endure. His ability to tell stories that resonated with both casual fans and die-hard sports enthusiasts set him apart as a writer. Feinstein’s dedication to his craft was evident in every word he wrote, every interview he conducted, and every story he told. For decades, he brought the world of sports to life in a way that few others could, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of writers, athletes, and sports lovers alike.

As the sports community reflects on Feinstein’s life and career, it is clear that his impact goes far beyond the pages of his books or the columns he wrote. He was a master of his craft, a true storyteller, and a man whose passion for sports was matched only by his passion for sharing its stories. John Feinstein may be gone, but his words, ideas, and the lessons he imparted through them will live on, ensuring that his voice remains a vital part of the sports landscape for years to come.