The sports media world has collectively had one story on its minds the last few days: the leaked audio of ESPN’s Rachel Nichols as she discussed colleague Maria Taylor. Everyone seems to have an opinion on the matter, be it defending Nichols, defending Taylor, defending both, or in some of the odder circles of social media, chastising both. Once The Jump returned to air on Monday ahead of the upcoming NBA Finals, Nichols briefly took the time to add her context to the controversy.
“So the first thing they teach you in journalism school is don’t be the story. And I don’t plan to break that rule today or distract from a fantastic Finals,” she said. “I also don’t want to let this moment pass without saying how much I respect, how much I value our colleagues here at ESPN. How deeply, deeply sorry I am for disappointing those I hurt, particularly Maria Taylor, and how grateful I am to be part of this outstanding team.”
The floor then opened for NBA analysts Kendrick Perkins and Richard Jefferson to speak on the matter. That decision to have each speak was met with some derision on Twitter as some believed it put both ex-players in precarious positions. After Perkins and Jefferson spoke, Nichols thanked each of them and the show continued.
Taylor is currently in a well-documented contract dispute as she nears the end of her deal. It remains to be seen how the conflict resolves, though it is at an unfortunate time for those in NBA circles as the Finals gear up with the draft and free agency looming.
