ESPN is adding another familiar face to its basketball coverage. Inside the NBA analyst Kenny Smith has joined ESPN as part of a new multi-year agreement that will see him contribute across several platforms, including regular appearances on First Take and select game broadcasts.
The move brings one of the most recognizable NBA studio analysis to the network’s growing rotation of talent. Smith will make his first official appearance under the new deal as a special guest on NBA Countdown tonight, according to ESPN. He will also serve as a game analyst for select NBA broadcasts during the season.
Primarily, Smith is expected to play a key role on First Take. The network’s flagship morning debate show hosted by Stephen A. Smith. His addition bolsters ESPN’s on-air lineup with a perspective that blends credibility, humor and firsthand championship experience.
Smith, a two-time NBA champion with the Houston Rockets. He has spent more than two decades as a central figure on Inside the NBA. Helping shape the show’s reputation as one of sports television’s most influential programs.
His new ESPN role follows Inside the NBA beginning to air on the ESPN network throughout the season under a sublicensing agreement with ESPN. TNT Sports will continue to produce the show.
Throughout the season, Inside the NBA will appear as part of marquee events. Such as the NBA on Christmas Day, NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC, and NBA Sunday Showcase. Pregame shows on ESPN will air one hour before tipoff, while ABC broadcasts will feature a 30-minute pregame window. Postgame coverage will continue on the ESPN App following ABC games.
While full details of appearances have no been released, the move does open up the possibility of Inside the NBA talent doing more with the network that carries the programming. Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Charles Barkley have not come to any additional agreements with ESPN as of yet.
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