Heartfelt tributes continue to pour in for revered and most-loved TV sports broadcaster Phumlani Msibi, who has sadly passed away after a short illness.
He was 57.
Msibi will be remembered for his iconic ‘Coach, thoughts please?’ question during his football post-match interviews.
SuperSport confirmed the passing of their legendary commentator, presenter, and anchor on Friday night.
Stock phrase
“In his decades-long and storied broadcasting career, his trademark phrase, ‘Coach, thoughts please?’ upped the intrigue for viewers in post-match interviews and became iconic in the football fraternity.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, and colleagues following this great loss. Born on 15 December 1967 in Durban, Msibi was a passionate and supremely talented storyteller, with a penchant for live football and boxing commentary and analysis,” SuperSport said on their website.
Tributes from football fans, players, coaches, artists, and political parties continue to pour in for Msibi on social media.
Other voices
Said EFF: “The EFF sends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of legendary sports anchor Phumulani Msibi following his passing. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Said SuperSport United: “Rest in Peace, Phumlani Msibi. A legendary commentator and presenter whose voice brought the game to life for so many.
“Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his work during his remarkable career. Your passion and presence will never be forgotten.”
Said actor Zola Hashatsi: “Thank you, Baba Phumlani Msibi, you played your part. Indima yakho uyidlalile ngesidima esibukekayo. Jamba uyoPhumula. You lived up to your name. Love and Light to the SuperSport family, the Msibi family, and the soccer fraternity at large. #RIPPhumlaniMsibi “
Monwabisi Kete said: “Mr Msibi will be remembered for the moments he laughed heartily and the times he tried so hard to hold back his laughter. Today, his words – “I am Phumlani Msibi, bye-bye” – carry a deeper meaning.”
Early days
Msibi started as a ring announcer with the late boxing promoter, Mzi Mnguni, in the late 1990s before becoming a seasoned boxing commentator, the first to commentate in isiZulu and English on SuperSport.
