R.I.P.: John Feinstein, Sports Commentator, Best-Selling Author

John Feinstein (1956-2025)

John Feinstein, a renowned sports commentator and best-selling author, passed away on Thursday, at the age of 69. His death occurred at his brother Robert Feinstein’s home in McLean, Virginia. Robert confirmed the passing to The Washington Post, where John had a long and distinguished career, but noted that the cause of death was not immediately clear, with some speculation suggesting it may have been a heart attack.

Feinstein was an iconic figure in sports journalism, known for his deep sourcing and compelling storytelling. 

He began his career at The Washington Post in 1977 as a night police reporter before transitioning to the sports beat, where he made his mark covering a wide range of sports, though he was particularly celebrated for his work on college basketball. His most famous work, A Season on the Brink (1986), chronicled a year with Indiana University’s basketball team under the volatile coach Bob Knight. The book, which offered unprecedented access and unflinching insight, became a No. 1 New York Times bestseller for 17 weeks and is widely regarded as a seminal sports book. It was later adapted into a TV movie starring Brian Dennehy.

Feinstein’s career was prolific: he authored over 40 books, including other bestsellers like A Good Walk Spoiled (1995) about the PGA Tour, and wrote on topics ranging from baseball, football, and tennis to golf and the Olympics. He also penned sports-mystery novels for young readers. Beyond writing, he was a familiar voice on NPR, ESPN, the Golf Channel, and SiriusXM, where he hosted radio programs. His final column for The Washington Post, filed the day before his death on March 12, 2025, and published Thursday morning, focused on Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo, reflecting his tireless work ethic even in his last days.

Tributes from colleagues and fans highlighted his passion, wit, and influence. Marquette coach Shaka Smart, upon learning of his death during a post-game interview, called him "one of the best sports writers ever," noting his care for the teams, players, and coaches he covered.