Remembering John “Sang” DiSangro (April 24, 1965 – June 26, 2025). The heart and soul behind Philadelphia’s sports legacy
On June 26, 2025, John “Sang” DiSangro passed away suddenly at age 60, succumbing to a heart attack at his home in Fairless Hills, PA . Born April 24, 1965, in Philadelphia, he graduated from Temple University in 1988 with a degree in Journalism and Communications.
🏀 Temple Basketball’s Unsung Titan
What began in 1983 as a student manager evolved into a 19‑season tenure as Director of Basketball Operations—a role created purely for Sang’s relentless dedication. Over nearly two decades, he orchestrated everything from travel, lodging, practice-doughnuts to film breakdowns and gear logistics. That quiet consistency powered 17 NCAA trips and five Elite Eight appearances and earned him induction into the Temple Basketball Ring of Honor in 2017.
Former assistant Dan Leibovitz noted, “There’s probably staffs now that have eight people doing what John did by himself”.
📺 Philadelphia’s Broadcast Backbone
In 2006, after Coach Chaney retired, Sang transitioned to television—joining Comcast SportsNet (now NBC Sports Philadelphia) as an associate producer for Phillies broadcasts. He shaped live graphics, hosted the beloved “Stump the Fans” trivia, earned a 2008 World Series ring, and guided broadcasts for over 25 years.
“He was the guy who, when you needed something done… got it done,” Phillies broadcaster Tom McCarthy said His colleagues compared him to a rock-band bassist—steady, essential, yet quietly behind the scenes.
💬 Voices That Echo His Legacy
- Tom McCarthy: “When you needed something done, he got it done.”
- Dan Leibovitz: “You couldn’t name something in the program that John didn’t touch… the ultimate grinder.”
- Jon Slobotkin: “In a rock band, the bass player keeps time… John … always got it done.”
👨👩👧👦 His People, His Passion
Sang’s roots in Tacony shaped him—one of four children of John Sr. and Rose Mary DiSangro. He is survived by his 26-year partner, Daryl Ehrhart, her children Kristin and John (and partner Jennifer), grandchildren, siblings Steve (Linda), Gina (John Dzwonar), Mary (Roy), nephews Rocco, Lucas, Christopher, John, and more. He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Stephen. His faithful turtle companion, Tommy, also joins the legacy of care left behind .
🕊️ Memorial & Meaningful Tributes
Funeral arrangements at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Levittown:
- Viewing: Wednesday, July 2 (6:30–9 p.m.) & Thursday, July 3 (9–11 a.m.)
- Service: Thursday, July 3 at 11 a.m., followed by cremation—guests are invited to wear Temple or Phillies gear.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Sea Turtle Recovery or Temple’s Journalism Department—a reflection of Sang’s enduring care for both wildlife and storytelling.
✨ A Legacy That Endures
John DiSangro’s life teaches us the vital strength of quiet service. Whether on Temple’s hardwood or producing live on air, he was the unwavering foundation—booking flights at dawn, blessing sneezes with “God bless you,” lending respect to every “Coach,” and ensuring no detail ever slipped through the cracks.
Because of Sang, runs were recorded, broadcasts went live, teams stayed together, and hearts were warmed. His legacy lives in every donut-laden morning, every flawlessly executed telecast, every thoughtful gesture—captured not by a highlight reel, but by lives quietly uplifted.
Let us honor him by embracing the humble power of showing up—for people, for purpose, for the long haul.
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