Jalen Rose, whose star continues to rise at ESPN, has just been selected as the 4th member of ESPN’s “NBA Countdown,” sources tell me. The deal, which came together over the weekend, will pair Rose with Bill Simmons, Magic Johnson and Michael Wilbon, as ESPN makes a run at TNT’s “Inside the NBA.” The two shows don’t go head-to-head, but “Inside the NBA” is far more popular among fans.
As for Jon Barry and Chris Broussard? Well, Barry is shifting to game analysis, while Broussard is going back to SportsCenter (presumably taking his sources with him).
Simmons formally making the pre-show has to be a dream for him. Good for him. I just wonder if he'll have the guts to call out certain guys the way he calls them out on his podcast.
And oh, Chris Broussard. We'll always have this moment from last year!
Magic Johnson is still the weakest link. I imagine there will be a big initial bump in viewers just because Simmons has such a big following. I am looking forward to this, although it would be way more fun to see him take Shaq's spot with Chuck and the gang. Also, am I the only one that think Simmons has some crash and burn potential ala Tony Kornheiser on MNF?
Originally posted by BigDaddyLocoMagic Johnson is still the weakest link. I imagine there will be a big initial bump in viewers just because Simmons has such a big following. I am looking forward to this, although it would be way more fun to see him take Shaq's spot with Chuck and the gang. Also, am I the only one that think Simmons has some crash and burn potential ala Tony Kornheiser on MNF?
(edited by BigDaddyLoco on 18.10.12 2209)
That is the first example I thought of when I heard this. I hope not as I like Simmons alot. I just hope he lets the words flow and does not try to hard to be "Bill Simmons".
Does Bill Simmons have that big of a following to move ratings or a following? Every time I see Bill on TV, he is cringe worthy. I fully expect Bill talk about the Celtics non-stop and needle Magic, because he lost once to Bird. I like his writing, but when he opens his mouth, he reminds me why I hate all teams from Bostons.
You have to keep Magic. He is one of the few icons from the NBA that is loved by all. Bird and MJ are not going to do it plus Magic has more charisma than Bird and he comes off well. Wilbon staying makes me said, because it means less PTI in the future.
The Wee Baby Sheamus.Twitter: @realjoecarfley its a bit more toned down there. A bit.
Originally posted by BigDaddyLocoMagic Johnson is still the weakest link.
This is true. He adds nothing.
Once again, I have blown away my signature's tags and it's up to CRZ to fix them before the entire board disappears. I don't know I continue have to have this green background if I'm not going to properly mantain it!
I can't remember if this was discussed here, but the original plan was to add Bill Simmons and Stan Van Gundy. That was almost a done deal but suddenly everything fell through, and the rumor/innuendo is that David Stern said "oh hell no" and forced ESPN to reverse position.
No NBA personality is more IDGAF than SVG, so I was a little disappointed by that. That being said, I find Jalen Rose quite entertaining, so this is a pretty good second choice.
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