“ So many girls think they can do it because you did it. Thanks for that ! » Overflowing enthusiasm from Malika Andrews on the ESPN set.
This one has just stopped on a television event linked to the opening of the Finals between Celtics and Mavs: Doris Burke became the first woman to commentate an NBA Finals game on national television. Unheard of in the American championship, or even in the other major leagues of American sport.
Important moment for our sport tonight. Love and respect to DB and everything she does to elevate all of us! You're a! https://t.co/eckUkkP2Bk
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 7, 2024
A form of consecration for this journalistic figure known to all players in the basketball world. Teaming up with Mike Breen and JJ Redick on this night, Doris Burke joined ESPN in 1990, then served as the sideline reporter from 2009 to 2019 for ABC. Before being an analyst on ESPN Radio during the last four Finals.
Inspired by Robin Roberts, the star presenter of Good Morning America on ABC, Doris Burke realizes the significance of this moment for her, but not only.
“ I am concentrating on preparing for the matches that await me. But I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't aware that there was something significant there. And that meaning, for me, is that if, in one way or another, this mission makes life easier for women in sport or helps them in their pursuit, then nothing could be more meaningful “, she judges.
A model for others
The other precursors of the discipline are not mistaken. “(Burke) worked hard. Someone gave her an opportunity, she took it and performed “, says Ann Meyers Drysdale, the first woman to have worked on an NBA game for one of the TV broadcast networks, in 1997 for NBC.
The ABC analyst is therefore a little more the standard bearer for these women journalists in the NBA universe, and beyond.
“ I say it every time I see her and Ann Meyers Drysdale. I would not have the role and position I do if they had not not only done the job, but done it so competently and diligently. The way she thrived in this role paved the way for many of us », Confides Sarah Kustok, who analyzes Nets matches on YES Network.
Following the Celtics' victory yesterday, JJ Redick, who was also taking his first steps at this stage, preferred to salute the performance of his partner : “ What I did is insignificant. What she did is historic, I am so proud of her. » « Don't make me cry », replied Doris Burke.
