Shams Charania might not remain on the free agent market for long.
The NBA insider, who recently left digital sports network Stadium after six years, is reportedly being considered by both NBCUniversal and Amazon, according to Front Office Sports. Both companies have a piece of the NBA’s new media rights package that begins with the 2025-26 season.
NBC’s and Amazon’s huge investments require big talent, and Charania now stands as the leading NBA insider, following ESPN reporter Adrian Wojnarowski’s stunning decision last week to step down. The early money might have been on Charania to fill that role, with ESPN’s Pat McAfee even urging the network to hire the 30-year-old reporter.
Yet there was also a report that ESPN might look to replace Woj with a “scoops-by-committee” approach using their existing talent.
Charania would bring instant credibility to either NBC or Amazon’s NBA coverage. He also brings a strong social media presence, including 2.3 million followers on X, and his youth plays well with the NBA’s demographics.
Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports reported a source said Charania is “talking to everyone at this point.”
Charania remains a contributor with The Athletic and FanDuel TV, but The New York Post reports both of those deals expire this year.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.