John Feinstein, a renowned Washington Post sportswriter and best-selling author, passed away on Thursday at the age of 69. According to The Washington Post, his brother Robert confirmed that the esteemed sports commentator died at his brother’s home in McLean, Va.

Robert stated that the exact cause of death was not immediately known.

John Feinstein was a celebrated sportswriter, commentator, and best-selling author, known for his in-depth storytelling and insightful coverage of college and professional sports. Born on July 28, 1956, he grew up in New York and developed a passion for sports early on. He attended Duke University, where he earned his degree in 1977 and launched his career in journalism.

Feinstein became a household name through his work at The Washington Post, where he covered a wide range of sports, from college basketball to golf and beyond. His incisive reporting and ability to capture the human side of athletes set him apart in the industry. Over the years, he contributed to numerous major media outlets, including Sports Illustrated, The Golf Channel, National Public Radio, and CBS Sports.

 

A prolific author, Feinstein wrote more than 40 books, including 23 New York Times bestsellers. His most famous work, A Season on the Brink (1986), chronicled a year in the life of Indiana University basketball coach Bob Knight and remains one of the best-selling sports books of all time. Other notable titles include A Good Walk Spoiled, which delved into the world of professional golf, and The Legends Club, a deep dive into the fierce rivalry between legendary college basketball coaches Dean Smith, Mike Krzyzewski, and Jim Valvano.

Feinstein had a special affinity for college sports, particularly basketball and football, and was known for his unparalleled access to coaches and players. In 2024, he published his milestone 50th book, The Ancient Eight, an exploration of Ivy League football. His writing was characterized by meticulous research, engaging narratives, and a deep respect for the athletes and coaches he covered.

His final column, on Michigan State coach Tom Izzo, was published on The Washington Post’s website the morning of his passing. He leaves behind a rich legacy as one of the most influential sports journalists of his generation.