A Bay Area Icon, Greg Papa, the esteemed radio voice of the San Francisco 49ers and co-host of KNBR’s midday show, has announced a leave of absence following a cancer diagnosis. The announcement, made by KNBR on Friday, August 1, 2025, marks a temporary pause in Papa’s illustrious broadcasting career as he prioritizes treatment and recovery. The news reverberated throughout the Bay Area sports community, prompting an outpouring of support for the beloved announcer.
A Career Interrupted
Greg Papa, 62, has been the unmistakable voice of the 49ers since 2019, delivering play-by-play commentary that has captivated fans and brought the excitement of the game to life. His contributions to sports broadcasting have been widely recognized, earning him the prestigious California Sportscaster of the Year award three times. Beyond his 49ers duties, Papa is also known for his insightful and engaging presence as a co-host on KNBR’s midday show, where he shares his perspectives on the latest sports news and engages in lively discussions with his co-host and listeners.
Prior to focusing on the 49ers, Papa cultivated a long and storied career covering a wide range of Bay Area sports teams. His broadcasting resume includes stints covering the Giants, Athletics, Raiders, and Warriors, solidifying his status as a true Bay Area sports broadcasting institution. His deep knowledge of the local sports landscape, combined with his passion for the game, has made him a favorite among fans of all teams.
The Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The specific type of cancer that Greg Papa has been diagnosed with has not been publicly disclosed, respecting his privacy during this challenging time. However, the announcement from KNBR emphasized that Papa is stepping away from his broadcasting duties to fully focus on his treatment and recovery. This decision underscores the seriousness of the diagnosis and Papa’s commitment to prioritizing his health and well-being.
While Papa undergoes treatment, his co-host, Greg Silver, will continue to lead the KNBR midday show. KNBR plans to feature a rotating cast of guest co-hosts to join Silver, providing listeners with diverse perspectives and ensuring the show remains engaging and informative. This approach will allow the show to maintain its quality and relevance while also providing opportunities for other voices to be heard.
Community Support and Industry Reaction
News of Greg Papa’s diagnosis has been met with an outpouring of support from the Bay Area sports community, fellow broadcasters, and fans alike. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of encouragement and well wishes, demonstrating the deep respect and affection that Papa has garnered throughout his career. Many have praised his professionalism, his passion for sports, and his contributions to the Bay Area community.
The news was widely reported by various media outlets, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Sports Business Journal, and the Los Angeles Times, highlighting the significance of Papa’s role in the sports broadcasting landscape. These reports emphasized his long and successful career, his contributions to the 49ers broadcast team, and the impact he has had on the Bay Area sports community.
A Legacy of Excellence: Bay Area Icon
Greg Papa’s career is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for sports broadcasting. His three California Sportscaster of the Year awards are a reflection of his exceptional skills and his ability to connect with audiences. His contributions to the 49ers broadcast team, as well as his work covering other Bay Area teams, have made him a beloved figure in the local sports community. His deep knowledge of the game, combined with his engaging personality, has made him a favorite among fans of all ages.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Greg Papa is also known for his commitment to giving back to the community. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has used his platform to raise awareness for important causes. His dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others is a testament to his character and his values.
Looking Ahead
While the news of Greg Papa’s diagnosis is undoubtedly difficult, the outpouring of support from the community serves as a reminder of the impact he has had on so many lives. As he focuses on his treatment and recovery, he can take comfort in knowing that he has the support of his family, friends, colleagues, and fans. The entire Bay Area sports community is united in wishing him a speedy and full recovery.
KNBR has expressed its unwavering support for Greg Papa and has assured listeners that he will remain a valued member of the team. While his absence will be felt, the station is committed to providing listeners with the same high-quality sports coverage they have come to expect. Greg Silver, along with a rotating cast of guest co-hosts, will continue to lead the midday show, ensuring that listeners remain informed and entertained.
Greg Papa’s legacy as a Bay Area sports broadcasting icon is secure. His contributions to the 49ers broadcast team, as well as his work covering other local teams, have made him a beloved figure in the community. As he embarks on this new chapter in his life, he can take pride in his accomplishments and the positive impact he has had on so many lives. The entire Bay Area sports community is eagerly awaiting his return to the airwaves.
Conclusion
Greg Papa’s temporary departure from KNBR due to his cancer diagnosis marks a challenging moment for the Bay Area sports community. As the voice of the 49ers and a respected figure in local sports broadcasting, his absence will be keenly felt. However, the outpouring of support underscores his lasting impact and the community’s hope for his full recovery. His legacy as a Bay Area icon remains strong, and fans eagerly anticipate his return.
