It’s a trend for major networks to bring in active coaches or players for their studio coverage of the playoffs or final series. For ESPN/ABC and the NBA Finals that is no different. Bristol has invited one of the league’s biggest stars, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade, to join the cast of NBA Countdown for a possible four games of the NBA Finals:
ESPN announced today that NBA superstar Dwyane Wade will join ABC NBA Countdown for select games during the NBA Finals. Wade, who has played in the previous four NBA Finals on ABC, will contribute insights and analysis during pre-game and halftime shows for Games 2 and 3, and again for Games 6 and 7, if necessary.
Wade will join host Sage Steele and analysts Doug Collins and Jalen Rose on the set. NBA Countdown airs 30 minutes prior to each NBA Finals game and is on the road throughout the series for on-site shows. Wade will make his debut Sunday, June 7, prior to Game 2, at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
Dwyane Wade’s long list of accolades includes three NBA Championships, 2006 NBA Finals MVP, 11 All-Star appearances and an Olympic Gold Medal in 2008.
It’s interesting that Wade would only appear for what would amount to half the series (and in different locations at that), but it’s a smart addition for ESPN/ABC. Wade adds some definite All-Star recognition to their studio show and can give some current insights on LeBron James playing in the Finals. And it could be a try-out for him if he’s considering a career in television once his playing days are done.
The Miami Herald reports ESPN is trying to set up an interview between Wade and James. Of course, it might be a little awkward for him considering it’s been Wade on the court with LBJ for the last several years… but then again, maybe he’s hoping to get a closer look at what’s going on in Cleveland up close. Hmm.…
[ESPN]
Comments are closed.