Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle took a moment during his Game 1 pregame press conference to address an issue unrelated to basketball strategy—but deeply important to the sport. Carlisle expressed disappointment and frustration over reports suggesting that Doris Burke may lose her spot on ESPN’s lead NBA broadcast team.
Before discussing the Pacers’ matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Carlisle unprompted praised Burke’s contributions to basketball broadcasting.
“She has changed the game for women in broadcasting,” Carlisle said. “Doris is a great example of courage and putting herself out there. It was just so sad to see these reports leaked really unnecessarily before such a celebrated event.”
Doris Burke is one of the most respected people in broadcasting. Not a debate.
With rumours swirling about her future at ESPN, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle took time before Game One of the Finals to remind people what she means to the sport. pic.twitter.com/CYQCaFBZO2
— Sid Seixeiro (@Sid_Seixeiro) June 6, 2025
Carlisle, who has long been an advocate for diversity in the sport, emphasized Burke’s trailblazing role in sports media. Burke, who has been with ESPN since 1991, became the first woman to serve as a TV analyst for a major men’s American sports championship when she was promoted to ESPN’s top NBA broadcast team in 2023.
Reports surfaced earlier this week suggesting that ESPN may consider removing Burke from its No. 1 NBA broadcast team after the Finals. The speculation has sparked backlash from fans and media figures alike, many of whom believe Burke has earned her place as one of the most respected voices in basketball.
Carlisle made it clear that he believes Burke’s contributions should be celebrated, not questioned. He also shared a personal connection, mentioning his 21-year-old daughter, who looks up to Burke as an example of strength and perseverance.
Burke will still be part of ESPN’s 2025 NBA Finals coverage, working alongside Mike Breen and Richard Jefferson. However, the uncertainty surrounding her future has raised concerns about gender representation in sports media.
As the Finals tip off, Burke remains in the spotlight—not just for her analysis, but for the conversation surrounding her place in the industry.
