Michael Kay Criticizes ESPN for Doc Rivers Situation
In a scathing critique, Michael Kay, the ESPN New York radio host, expressed his disappointment with ESPN after Doc Rivers left the network to become the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. Kay stated that ESPN now has “egg on its face” after previously parting ways with Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson, breaking up what he believes was the best booth in professional sports. Kay questioned ESPN’s decision to let go of Van Gundy and Jackson due to concerns about them pursuing coaching jobs, only to hire Rivers, who had interviewed for the Bucks job during the offseason. He criticized ESPN for not breaking the news first, as it was CNN Sports that initially reported Rivers’ hiring. Kay concluded by highlighting the challenge ESPN now faces in finding a replacement for Rivers and creating chemistry on the fly.
The Fallout
Michael Kay’s criticism stems from ESPN’s handling of the situation surrounding Doc Rivers’ departure. ESPN had assembled a broadcast team consisting of Mike Breen, Doris Burke, and Rivers as their top NBA broadcast trio. However, with Rivers leaving midseason, ESPN is left with Breen and Burke as their primary duo for the NBA Finals. Kay argued that this decision reflects poorly on ESPN and questioned whether it was a smart move.
ESPN’s Misstep
Michael Kay’s frustration with ESPN extended beyond the departure of Doc Rivers. He pointed out the irony of CNN Sports breaking the news before ESPN, despite ESPN paying Rivers a significant amount of money to be their top analyst. Kay criticized ESPN for not reporting the news and suggested that the network may have been trying to control the story. However, Kay emphasized that this approach was an “awful look” for ESPN.
The Aftermath
With Doc Rivers’ exit, ESPN now faces the challenge of finding a replacement and rebuilding their broadcast team. Michael Kay highlighted the difficulty of this task, considering the chemistry that needs to be developed among the broadcasters. He questioned ESPN’s next move in light of the situation.
Despite the controversy, Mike Breen and Doris Burke managed to inject some humor into their first broadcast after Rivers’ departure. Breen jokingly thanked Rivers for his service as an NBA broadcaster and wished him luck in his new role as an NBA head coach.
In conclusion, Michael Kay’s criticism of ESPN’s handling of the Doc Rivers situation highlights the network’s missteps and raises questions about their decision-making process. ESPN now faces the challenge of finding a replacement and rebuilding their NBA broadcast team.
