John Feinstein, the esteemed sportswriter and bestselling author, passed away on March 13, 2025, at the age of 69. He died of natural causes at his brother’s home in McLean, Virginia.
Feinstein’s career spanned decades, during which he became renowned for his in-depth reporting and compelling storytelling across various sports. He authored over 40 books, including the acclaimed “A Season on the Brink,” which provided an intimate look into the 1985-86 Indiana University basketball season under coach Bobby Knight.
Beyond his writing, Feinstein contributed as a commentator for NPR, ESPN, and the Golf Channel. He also served as a columnist for The Washington Post from 1977 to 1991 and continued as a contributing columnist thereafter.
His work earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame and the Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Feinstein is survived by his wife, Christine; their children, Brigid, Jane, and Danny; his brother, Robert; and his sister, Margaret.