ESPN’s Malika Andrews Joins “WNBA Countdown” as Co-Host
ESPN has announced that Malika Andrews will be joining “WNBA Countdown” as a co-host on the studio show’s new Los Angeles-based program. This move comes as ABC and ESPN are creating two broadcast desks for the pregame show, with one based in Bristol and another in Los Angeles.
The Bristol-based version of “WNBA Countdown” on ABC will feature the returning lineup of SportsCenter anchor and women’s basketball host Elle Duncan, along with analysts Chiney Ogwumike and Andraya Carter. On the other hand, ESPN’s “WNBA Countdown” in Los Angeles will be hosted by Andrews, along with analysts Monica McNutt, Carolyn Peck, Ogwumike, and Carter.
The “WNBA Countdown” pregame show was introduced during the 2022 WNBA postseason and will now serve as a pregame show throughout the regular season, playoffs, and finals. Andrews, who currently hosts ESPN’s weekday NBA studio show “NBA Today” and all editions of “NBA Countdown,” will make her debut on “WNBA Countdown” this Sunday ahead of the Brazil National Team vs. Indiana Fever preseason game on ESPN.
In her expanded role, Andrews will contribute across multiple platforms, providing depth and reach to ESPN’s coverage. She will also highlight WNBA news on “NBA Today” and “NBA Countdown.” Game coverage will begin at 4 p.m. ET and will feature Ryan Ruocco (play-by-play), Rebecca Lobo (analyst), and Holly Rowe (sideline reporter).
Andrews made her ESPN debut as a sideline reporter during the 2019-20 season at the ESPN World of Sports Complex in Florida, where she covered the NBA Playoffs. Prior to joining ESPN in October 2018, she worked as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune and as a James Reston Reporting Fellow in the sports department at The New York Times.
Andrews is represented by CAA Sports and Jill Fritzo Public Relations. Her addition to “WNBA Countdown” brings a fresh perspective and valuable insight to the show, enhancing the overall viewing experience for fans of the WNBA.
