‘’Would you be willing to wear a Cinderella dress?’’

That’s something you ask a 5-year-old girl who loves pretend games. But in late January, we asked it of Dick Vitale, 68, the face and voice of ESPN’s college basketball broadcasts.

He agreed.

‘’I’m a ham,’’ Vitale said. ‘’This game has been so good to me, I’ll do anything to promote it. Besides, I love those Cinderella teams.’’

On March 11, wedged between his assignments at the North Carolina-Duke game and the ACC Tournament, Vitale made time for us at his Lakewood Ranch home. Sports writer-turned-fashion coordinator Katherine Smith secured the dress and accessories. Photographer Michael Spooneybarger, somehow keeping a straight face, patiently searched for the proper angles and lighting. Multimedia photo editor Joseph Brown III documented the proceedings on video.

Vitale, ever the good sport, was a perfect model. And, as usual, he says we can expect the unexpected at this season’s NCAA Tournament. Some results may even leave you speechless – sort of like the anticipated reaction to our cover shot.