ESPN launches weekday podcasts on ESPN2 channel

Podcasts are scheduled to broadcast on ESPN2 on weekdays beginning on January 29th, from 2:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m ET

Alexander Lewis - Jan 30, 2024

A representational image displaying ESPN content. — Unsplash

ESPN, the popular American cable sports channel, has incorporated seasonal content from its most popular podcasts into its ESPN2 channel beginning on January 29.

These podcasts are currently accessible on ESPN’s YouTube channel and come with an established fanbase. This move marks the first time that ESPN2 will be airing podcasts, although the network has previously aired its ESPN Radio coverage.

This decision will introduce a new group of sports personalities to host ESPN content and provide in-depth coverage of various leagues during each season in order to broaden the network’s audience.

First Draft, hosted by the renowned "godfather of draft analysis" Mel Kiper Jr, along with Field Yates, will air on Mondays and will analyse the top prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. On Tuesdays, The Hoop Collective, featuring Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, Tim Bontemps, and other ESPN NBA insiders, will discuss basketball-related topics.

The Low Post with Zach Lowe will join ESPN2 on Wednesdays. Lowe utilises his background in reporting, data analysis, and film study to offer "a smart but accessible look" inside the NBA.

“They said a football podcast co-hosted by a woman and a dog could never be on ESPN2,” Mina Kimes posted on X. “They were wrong.”

“This strategic content initiative provides our ESPN podcasts with a tremendous opportunity for continued growth and audience expansion while simultaneously lending compelling content to our ESPN2 television lineup,” said Mike Foss, ESPN’s senior vice president of production. “The opening slate of podcasts combine timely, in-season sports – First Draft, The Hoop Collective, and The Lowe Post – and high-profile ESPN personalities such as Mina Kimes and Elle Duncan.”

ESPN Audio was launched in 2005 with its first podcast and has since expanded to include over 35 offerings and shows from ESPN Radio and television. These titles focus on sports through storytelling and can be accessed wherever podcasts are available as well as on ESPN platforms.