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ESPN Replacement For Doris Burke Has Emerged

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 4:18 PM ET

There's a very real chance ESPN will replace Doris Burke this offseason.

Burke is currently the lead analyst for ESPN's coverage of the NBA. In 2024, she became the first woman to serve as a TV analyst for an American men's championship. She'll be back in the booth this Thursday for Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

According to Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, ESPN will "evaluate" its broadcast trio of Doris Burke, Mike Breen and Richard Jefferson once this season wraps up. As of now, Breen is the only one safe due to his contract situation.

"Burke’s spot is not guaranteed for next season, according to sources familiar with ESPN’s preliminary plans," Marchand wrote. "While Breen, the Basketball Hall of Famer under a long-term deal, is not going anywhere, ESPN will evaluate its entire roster."

If ESPN chooses to replace Burke for the 2025-26 season, there's a chance an in-house option will rise to the top.

LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 08: ESPN reporter and analyst Doris Burke broadcasts after a preseason game between the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers at T-Mobile Arena on October 8, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Los Angeles won 75-69. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Marchand mentioned NBA analyst Tim Legler as a potential replacement for Burke. He's not a flashy option, but ESPN viewers are quite fond of him.

"Some top decision-makers like Legler a lot, and he could become a Finals option, according to sources briefed on the network decision-makers’ thinking," Marchand wrote.

Legler has been with ESPN since 2000. He makes regular appearances on "SportsCenter" to cover all the latest news in the NBA world.

Prior to becoming an analyst, Legler played for the Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards.

Only time will tell if Legler receives a massive promotion for the 2025-26 season.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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