Now that Dwyane Wade’s playing days are over he will need a new job. Both ESPN and TNT are hoping to become his next employer according to Andrew Marchand of the New York Post.
Marchand reports that Wade has never explicitly stated that he is interested in going into the broadcast industry, but that is not stopping both of the NBA’s major television partners from readying pitches for his services, and each one is looking at Wade as the start of something new.
ESPN is reportedly considering using Wade as part of a major overhaul to its NBA studio coverage. Marchand notes that despite her big contract, Michelle Beadle may have lost some fans at ESPN and Maria Taylor and Rachel Nichols could be in line for the studio host role should the network make a change.
Jalen Rose could also be moved off the show as his morning workload grows. Chauncy Billups has received rave reviews for his game analyst work during the playoffs. Even if he doesn’t remain in that role ESPN could still lose him to a front office role with the Timberwolves.
ESPN reportedly sees Dwyane Wade as a potential new face for their pregame show. As for who he could work with, Marchand notes that teaming him with Paul Pierce could be interesting given all Pierce has had to say about how the two’s careers compare. Wade’s former coach Stan Van Gundy could be an option as well.
As for TNT, Marchand reports its pitch to Wade could be a little more flexible. Charles Barkley claims he will retire from Inside the NBA at age 60. He is currently 56-years-old. The network could use Wade in a role that lets him come and go as he pleases until it’s time for him to take over Barkley’s chair full time.
There is no timetable on when the pitches will take place or when a decision will be made. Dwyane Wade has contributed to ABC’s NBA Finals coverage in the past, but hasn’t given any indication as to what he plans to do professionally next year.
