ESPN has announced that Christine Williamson will take over Elle Duncan’s role as co-host for the 6 p.m. edition of “SportsCenter,” working alongside Kevin Negandhi. Williamson will also host women’s college basketball segments on “College GameDay,” according to a press release from the network.
Currently, Williamson co-hosts the 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. editions of “SportsCenter” with Matt Barry and will start her new position in January.
Meanwhile, Duncan is set to transition to Netflix, where she will lead their sports coverage. Her last show on ESPN is scheduled for December 16, as noted by Front Office Sports.
At Netflix, Duncan is reportedly expected to take on a role similar to that of Bob Costas, serving as a host for various multi-sport broadcasts.
Williamson joined ESPN in 2019 after working with Fox Sports, the Big 12 Network, and the Denver Broncos. She hails from Tampa, Florida, and previously played college volleyball at the University of Miami.
In a related shift, Marika Andrews, who hosts “NBA Today” and “NBA Countdown,” is anticipated to assume Duncan’s responsibilities for ESPN’s WNBA coverage, including “WNBA Countdown,” the draft, all-star events, and playoffs.
Duncan was part of a crew known as “The Big Three,” alongside Chiney Ogwumike and Andraya Carter, as ESPN sought to enhance its women’s sports coverage.
The Athletic has reported that Duncan’s move to Netflix isn’t due to any conflicts with ESPN. It indicates there’s no animosity as she moves on to this new chapter.
Additionally, it appears Duncan’s deal with Netflix includes a “significant raise” compared to her ESPN salary, with the flexibility to work fewer hours. She might also have the chance to engage in events beyond sports, although Netflix will have priority over her schedule in case of conflicts.
