Nichols’ “The Jump” also ended its run after Roberts took over. It was replaced by “NBA Today”.
Roberts took over after the Finals and met with the network’s NBA unit during the Vegas Summer League with a simple message: He would be approachable and involved, but not micromanage.
Roberts’ goal with “NBA Today” was to make sure it wasn’t “The Jump 2.0.”
“NBA Today” thrived with Malika Andrews as host. Andrews has been one of ESPN’s rising stars for the past two years and took over as a sideline reporter for the Finals last year in place of Nichols.
Andrews – who also does side reports during select games – has been a quick study to engage on-set commentators in conversations and pivot quickly when news develops. Roberts praised Andrews’ performance on the February 10 special. It was the most-watched “NBA Today” episode with 544,000 viewers.
“NBA Today” averages 334,000 viewers.
“She’s ready, she’s prepared, and she’s committed to the journalism part of what we do,” Roberts said. “She can function as a great playmaker, if you will, to improve everyone on this board. This product is essential for doing these types of ensemble programs. It should also be insightful, fun and entertaining.
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