ESPN Shakes Up NBA Finals Broadcast: Doris Burke Replaced by Tim Legler in Shocking Move

Burke, 60, provided NBA Finals coverage at the network the past two seasons. When she was first elevated into the role in 2023, Burke became the first woman to serve as a game analyst during a championship series in one of the four major sports in North America.

Doris Burke, a trailblazer who shattered glass ceilings in sports broadcasting, won’t be gracing ESPN’s NBA Finals coverage next season. Yep, you heard right — after making history as the first woman to analyze a championship series in a major North American sport, Burke is reportedly stepping aside, with Tim Legler stepping into the spotlight. It’s a move that’s got folks talking, especially considering the praise Burke earned from coaches and players alike just months ago. While she’ll remain under ESPN’s umbrella for now, this shift signals a new chapter in the network’s ever-changing top NBA broadcast lineup. Curious about what led to this shakeup and what’s next for Burke and ESPN? LEARN MOREWhen ESPN airs the NBA Finals next season, Doris Burke won’t be a part of the broadcast. The network is reportedly demoting Burke from its NBA Finals broadcast team in favor of Tim Legler, according to Andrew Marchand of The Athletic.Burke provided coverage of the finals last season alongside long-time play-by-play announcer Mike Breen and former NBA star Richard Jefferson. Both men are expected to remain on ESPN’s No. 1 broadcast team next season. They’ll be joined by Legler.

Burke provided coverage of the finals last season alongside long-time play-by-play announcer Mike Breen and former NBA star Richard Jefferson. Both men are expected to remain on ESPN’s No. 1 broadcast team next season. They’ll be joined by Legler.

In June, The Athletic reported Burke’s spot on ESPN’s top NBA team was in jeopardy. Following that report, Burke received praise from Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle — whose team was playing in the NBA Finals at the time — and Jefferson, who wore a shirt in support of Burke at the Women’s College World Series.AdvertisementLegler, a former 10-year NBA veteran, is a long-time NBA analyst at ESPN. He joined the network in 2000 and has appeared on countless shows over the past 25 years. Legler started regularly calling games at ESPN in 2023.