ESPN recently announced some notable changes to its NBA broadcast team, including the demotion of basketball analyst Doris Burke from her lead role just a few months after she called her second NBA Finals. The network revealed its broadcasting plans for the upcoming season, introducing Tim Legler to join the established crew, which includes play-by-play announcer Mike Breen, analyst Richard Jefferson, and reporter Lisa Salters.
Doris Burke, who has been at ESPN for over 35 years, received a multi-year contract extension and will work alongside play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch during the regular season and playoffs. This marks a significant career milestone for her, showcasing her long-standing dedication to sports broadcasting.
The decision to change Burke’s role has sparked a wave of support from fans and colleagues alike. Notably, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle publicly defended her, stating that she has been a trailblazer for women in sports media and expressed disappointment at the way the news broke. He highlighted her expertise and influence, noting that many women have benefited from her legacy in the industry.
Following the report of Burke’s change in position, Richard Jefferson demonstrated his support by wearing a shirt that read, “My Favorite Broadcaster is Doris Burke” during an interview.
Burke’s journey began at ESPN in 1990, and she has played a significant role in NBA Finals coverage since 2009, moving from a sideline reporter to a prominent analyst. In 2024, she made history as the first woman to be a game analyst for a championship final in one of the major U.S. professional sports leagues. Her influence extends beyond her on-air work, as she has mentored many younger female broadcasters and has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame’s Curt Gowdy Media Award in 2018.
In summary, while Doris Burke’s new position marks a shift in her career, her impact on sports broadcasting, especially for women, remains significant.
