ESPN is adding a fresh face to its NBA coverage this season. The network reportedly will add Alyssa Lang to serve as one of its sideline reporters, joining a rotation that includes Lisa Salters, Katie George, Jorge Sedano, and Malika Andrews. This is according to a report by Front Office Sports.
Her first NBA assignment comes this Sunday, when the Cleveland Cavaliers face the Boston Celtics in preseason action. Lang will work alongside play-by-play voice Mark Jones and analyst Doris Burke, marking her official debut on ESPN’s national NBA coverage.
Lang, who has worked as a host and reporter for ESPN and SEC Network since 2018, brings a lively and engaging personality to her new role. Known for her work on shows like Out of Pocket and SEC Now, she’s established herself as a versatile broadcaster with a strong connection to both athletes and fans.
ESPN’s decision to expand its sideline rotation reflects a continuing effort to bolster its on-air presence across the NBA schedule. In addition to Lang’s addition, the network recently announced that Malika Andrews will return to the sidelines this season after spending the past two years focusing primarily on studio duties. Andrews, who hosts NBA Today and NBA Countdown, recently signed a contract extension with ESPN.
While Andrews will continue to lead NBA Today, her Countdown responsibilities will be scaled back during the postseason. The change comes as ESPN prepares to license elements of TNT’s Inside the NBA, a move that could reshape the network’s playoff coverage and studio presentation.
Lang’s addition comes during a period of transition for ESPN’s NBA team. Earlier this year, Cassidy Hubbarth departed the network to become the lead sideline reporter for Amazon’s new NBA package, creating an opportunity for Lang to step into the national spotlight.
With her energy, humor, and experience connecting with players and coaches in the SEC, Lang’s transition to the NBA sidelines appears to be a natural fit. She becomes part of an evolving roster of reporters and analysts that ESPN hopes will bring a fresh, engaging feel to its coverage this season.
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