Stuart Scott: ESPN Anchor Gets Touching Tributes From President Obama and Michael Jordan

If you don't understand the impact that the late ESPN anchor, Stuart Scott, had on the world, look no further than a couple of statements posted Sunday afternoon. President Barack Obama and Michael Jordan -- probably the greatest athlete in American history -- both offered their condolences to Scott's family after the 49-year-old succumbed to cancer.

Here's the statement from Obama (via USA Today):

I will miss Stuart Scott. Twenty years ago, Stu helped usher in a new way to talk about our favorite teams and the day's best plays. For much of those twenty years, public service and campaigns have kept me from my family - but wherever I went, I could flip on the TV and Stu and his colleagues on SportsCenter were there. Over the years, he entertained us, and in the end, he inspired us - with courage and love. Michelle and I offer our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Jordan, who'd known Scott since the mid-'80s, added his thoughts and sent good wishes to Scott's two daughters.

Here's his statement (via Sporting News):

I'm so sad to hear the news that Stuart has passed away. He was truly a trailblazer in his field, and by refusing to change his style, made himself into a star. I always enjoyed sitting down to talk to him. But to me, he wasn't just a broadcaster, he was an old friend, who I'd known since college. He fought so hard against cancer and I hoped he'd win the battle. I send my sincerest condolences to his daughters, Taelor and Sydni, and his family and friends. Boo-yah, my brother.

As reported earlier Sunday, the music world is quite upset after Scott's passing, and many celebrities have taken to social media to share their favorite memories of the anchor.

Perhaps the most touching was from his former SportsCenter partner, Rich Eisen:

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