Maria Taylor Is Leaving ESPN After Contract Extension Talks Fall Through

Maria Taylor Is Leaving ESPN

ESPN announced today that Maria Taylor would be leaving the company after failing to reach an agreement on a contract extension. Here is ESPN’s statement:

Maria’s remarkable success speaks directly to her abilities and work ethic. There is no doubt we will miss Maria, but we remain determined to continue to build a deep and skilled talent roster that thoroughly reflects the athletes we cover and the fans we serve. While she chose to pursue a new opportunity, we are proud of the work we’ve done together.

Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN and Sports Content, via ESPN Press Room

Maria Taylor also released a statement of her own through the ESPN Press Room:

So thankful to Jimmy and all of my great teammates and friends at the SEC Network, College GameDay, Women’s and Men’s college basketball, and the NBA Countdown family — the people who believed in me, encouraged me, pushed me, and lifted me up.  Words are inadequate to express my boundless appreciation, and I hope to make them proud.

Maria Taylor, via ESPN Press Room

Maria Taylor Expected to Join NBC

Taylor’s departure comes hot on the heels of Rachel Nichols’ ill-advised comments on Taylor being given NBA Finals coverage a year ago solely due to her race. Taylor’s contract expired during the 2021 NBA Finals, and the Worldwide Leader were unable to negotiate her return. During her time at ESPN, she covered college football, college basketball, and the NBA. The 34-year-old rising star is largely expected to sign on with NBC, where she will be part of their coverage of the Olympics and NFL.

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