Draymond Green joined Turner Sports on a multi-year deal in January. Another prominent active player is following in his footsteps.
Pelicans guard CJ McCollum has joined ESPN as a multi-platform NBA analyst, the broadcasting giant announced in a press release.
His new responsibilities will begin on Thursday, coinciding with Game 1 of the Finals. McCollum, the current NBPA President, will appear as part of NBA Finals: Celebrating 75, ESPN2’s alternate presentation for Game 1.
McCollum will work with ESPN to develop a new podcast, Joe Reedy of the Associated Press relays. He will also be an analyst on games during coverage of the NBA Summer League as well as some appearances on studio shows throughout the year.
“It is my honor to be joining the ESPN family in this new role and I am excited to bring what I feel is my unique perspective, based on my vast knowledge of the game that I’ve gained during my nine years as a player in the NBA,” McCollum said. “To have an opportunity to put my journalism background to use on the largest stage with the many talented professionals at ESPN is a dream come true.”
Numerous current WNBA players have appeared on ESPN in a variety of roles, including Los Angeles Sparks forward Chiney Ogwumike, who has been working for the network since 2018.
McCollum gives the network a prominent and outspoken presence on its NBA broadcasts.
David Roberts, ESPN’s Head of NBA and Studio Production, said in a statement, “CJ is one of the most respected players in the NBA, which is evident by his role as President of the NBA PA. Furthermore, he’s an extremely talented member of – and leader on – one of the most interesting teams in the league: the New Orleans Pelicans. CJ’s commitment to this opportunity, combined with his passion for journalism and sports broadcasting, will be a clear benefit for NBA fans.”
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