As a part of its “Black History Always” campaign, ESPN is making an increased effort to highlight its Black talent both on camera and behind the scenes.
That includes the network’s announcement that its broadcast of a game featuring the Atlanta Hawks and San Antonio Spurs on Feb. 5 will feature an all-Black staff.
According to a release, that will include a broadcast team comprised of Mark Jones, Richard Jefferson and Lisa Salters. Meanwhile, Malika Andrews will host NBA Today and the pregame NBA Countdown, with Chiney Ogwumike, Udonis Haslem and Kendrick Perkins serving as panelists on both shows.
Additionally, Michael Wilbon and William Rhoden will provide video essays, with ESPN collaborating with its Andscape vertical for “exclusive content for a variety of platforms, including a video essay by Marc J. Spears on Mark Jones’ broadcasting career. ESPN says that more than 40 Black employees will contribute to its NBA coverage throughout the day and that behind-the-scenes production staff and and personnel will have their roles highlighted during the Feb. 5 broadcasts.
“I’m thrilled that this broadcast can inspire young people dreaming of a career in sports broadcasting while also bringing together so many talented industry professionals,” ESPN producer Rodney Vaughn said in a statement. “It feels like we are creating Black history in real time.”
In addition to its own talent, ESPN is partnering with Clark Atlanta University to give a behind-the-scenes look of ESPN’s mobile units on site to the students of the university’s Mass Media program prior to the game as a part of the network’s “continued commitment to furthering the development of Black leaders in the industry.” First launched in 2021, the “Black History Always” campaign is a “company-wide content commitment initiative to highlight Black stories beyond the traditional Black History Month in February. “
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.