Announcer Craig Sager Returns to the NBA Sideline after Battling Leukemia

Craig Sager made his return to the sidelines in Thursday night's Chicago Bulls versus Oklahoma City Thunder game after an 11-month battle against leukemia.

"I'm 60 yards shorter off the tee, but I feel good," Sager told The Associated Press when he arrived at the United Center.

Sager, who is known for wearing colorful outfits, stuck to a red, black and gray plaid jacket paired with matching Nike shoes in support of the Bulls, who beat the Thunder 108-105. Although Sager's frame had thinned out, his spirit and love for the game did not change.

"I'm very grateful, very thankful, and I got up today and it was like the first day of school," Sager said. "You're a little nervous. I've done it before but everything's a little different. It's a long 11 months, believe me."

Sager, 63, found out he had leukemia last April. He had six blood transfusions and underwent a bone marrow transplant, which was donated by his son, Craig Jr. After his procedure, Sager focused on his recovery process.

When asked what he missed the most, Sager stated that it was the NBA family and not necessarily the games.

"It's not just the games. It's the people," Sager said. "The NBA is such a family. I try to get there three hours before the game, talk with the ushers and the security guards, the coaches and the fans . . . I just missed the whole atmosphere. I like being there."

Sager added, "I can't say this has been any great revelation that turned me into a different person. I've always appreciated my job. What I do appreciate more is the time I spend with my family. Now I don't pay as much attention to how far it is to the green as much as the smell of the grass and the sound of the birds around me."

"It's one of the great stories in the league," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. "He's a big part of this NBA family. We're all thrilled to have him back. He's been a great inspiration to a lot of people. His courage, his determination, the way he's fought. So we're just thrilled to have him back."

Sager is reportedly in full remission.

Players from all over the league showed their support for Sager. Here are just some of the social media posts: