ESPN has re-signed veteran anchor Michael Eaves to a multi-year contract, ensuring he will continue his work on SportsCenter and contribute to the network’s coverage of major golf events.
Since joining ESPN in 2015, Eaves has been a familiar face for sports fans, primarily anchoring nighttime editions of SportsCenter from the network’s Bristol studios. He also frequently reports on the road, covering marquee events including the Masters and the PGA Championship. In addition to anchoring, Eaves conducts post-round interviews with players and hosts practice round shows during live golf coverage.
“I can’t believe it’s already been 10 years since I signed my first ESPN contract. Time flies when you are having fun, and I have been doing that during my time here,” Eaves said.
Before joining ESPN, Eaves built a diverse broadcasting career that spanned local television, professional sports coverage, and national news. A Kentucky native, he began at WKYT/WDKY-TV in Lexington before moving to Memphis as a sports anchor at WPTY/WLMT-TV. While in Memphis, he also covered Memphis Grizzlies telecasts and hosted a morning sports talk show. His career then took him to Los Angeles, where he spent more than a decade with FOX Sports West/Prime Ticket. Where he covered the Clippers, Angels, Lakers, Dodgers, and Pac-12 football. Eaves also served as a news and sports anchor at Al Jazeera America.
“Michael has been a steady and familiar presence for sports fans, from the SportsCenter desk to major golf events. His professionalism and versatility have made him a valued member of our team. We’re pleased he will continue with ESPN,” said Mike Foss, senior vice president of Sports Studio & Entertainment.
Throughout his career, Eaves has received numerous accolades, including four Los Angeles-area Emmy Awards for Best Sports Reporting and Outstanding Sports Feature, a 2012 Telly Award for Best Sports Feature, and recognition as Best Television Anchor in Southern California by the LA Press Club in 2013. His professional affiliations include the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association and the National Association of Black Journalists.
Eaves, a University of Kentucky graduate with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, was honored in 2025 by his alma mater’s alumni association with induction into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni. Reflecting on his career, he said, “I have been very fortunate to have covered some of my favorite sports and the biggest events, and I look forward to a few more years of doing the same.”
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