ESPN Announces Changes to NBA Broadcast Teams for 2025-26 Season
ESPN has revealed significant changes to its NBA broadcast teams for the upcoming 2025-26 season, including a promotion for Tim Legler and a contract extension with a new role for Doris Burke. These adjustments aim to enhance the network’s coverage of the NBA, providing fans with fresh perspectives and experienced commentary.
Tim Legler Joins Lead NBA Crew
Tim Legler, a former NBA journeyman and current analyst, will join the network’s lead NBA crew alongside play-by-play announcer Mike Breen, analyst Richard Jefferson, and reporter Lisa Salters. This team will cover the 2026 NBA Finals on ABC, conference finals, and several playoff games, as well as Christmas Day and NBA Saturday Primetime games on ABC. Legler’s promotion is a testament to his expertise and contributions to ESPN’s NBA coverage since his retirement as a player in 2000.
Doris Burke’s Contract Extension and New Role
Doris Burke, a veteran analyst with ESPN since 1991, has signed a multi-year contract extension. Although she will no longer be part of the lead NBA broadcast team, Burke will continue to call games throughout the regular season and playoffs on ESPN and ABC, partnering with play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch. Burke made history in 2024 as the first woman to serve as a TV game analyst for a championship-round game in one of the four major professional U.S. men’s sports leagues. Her contributions to basketball have been recognized with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame’s Curt Gowdy Media Award in 2018.
Richard Jefferson’s Contract Extension
In addition to the changes involving Legler and Burke, ESPN has announced a multi-year extension for Richard Jefferson, who has been with the network since 2019. Jefferson called his first NBA Finals this year and will continue to be an integral part of ESPN’s NBA coverage alongside Mike Breen and Lisa Salters.
Reaction and Support for Doris Burke
The news about Burke’s future with the lead NBA team was first reported in June, prompting support from figures like Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. Carlisle praised Burke, stating, “She’s changed the game for women in broadcasting. Doris is a great example of courage and putting herself out there.” This sentiment reflects the high regard in which Burke is held within the basketball community for her groundbreaking work and dedication to the sport.
For more information on these developments and the upcoming NBA season, visit Here
Image Source: www.latimes.com
