Le Batard, Draftkings, NBA, Peacock, and More: Sports Media Updates

Dan Le Batard, formerly of ESPN and now a personality on DraftKings Network, may be on the move, sparking speculation about his future in media. Le Batard has hinted at a potential departure from DraftKings, but talks of a contract renewal are reportedly underway. His radio show is part of a licensing deal between DraftKings and Meadowlark Media, a partnership he shares with former ESPN president John Skipper.

In other news, DraftKings has decided not to renew contracts with former ESPN hosts Mike Golic, Mike Golic Jr., and Trey Wingo. Additionally, executive Marie Donoghue, with a background at ESPN and Amazon Prime Video, is set to leave DraftKings as the company shifts its focus away from content.

NBC Sports is contemplating a revival of the classic NBA show “NBA Inside Stuff” when the network resumes NBA coverage in the upcoming season. Ahmad Rashad-fronted show was popular in the 90s and early 2000s on NBC and ABC. While no official decision has been announced, a source suggests a modernized version of “Inside Stuff” might make a return.

Peacock, the streaming service, will now offer local Regional Sports Network (RSN) coverage directly to subscribers in the market. Fans can access live games of teams like the Golden State Warriors, San Francisco Giants, and the Sacramento Kings, among others, for a monthly fee. This move aligns with the trend of RSNs providing streaming options, following a similar decision by the Los Angeles Dodgers for SportsNet LA.

Other updates include the Chicago Sun-Times laying off several employees, including notable sportswriters, due to financial challenges. ESPN’s coverage of the NCAA Wrestling Championship semifinals will shift to ESPN2 to accommodate the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament airing on the main ESPN channel.

Exciting changes and potential comebacks are stirring up the world of streaming entertainment and sports coverage. Stay tuned for more updates as these stories continue to unfold.