Chiney Ogwumike Launches New ESPN Digital Show

ESPN is launching a new digital sports show hosted by Chiney Ogwumike, a prominent voice in sports media and a two-time WNBA All-Star. Titled “Chiney Today,” the show will air twice a week and aims to be a comprehensive “home for hoops, headlines, and happy times,” covering the basketball landscape from all angles.

Bringing Hoops Culture to the Forefront

Ogwumike, who has witnessed the game from the court, studio, and as a fan, expressed her vision for the show: “Basketball has always been so much bigger than final buzzers and box scores – it’s culture, community and global connection. I have been blessed to witness the game from every angle; on the court, in the studio, and even as a fan,” she said in a press release. “Chiney Today is about bringing all of that together, covering the entire basketball landscape in one place. We’re not only breaking down the game at the highest level, but we’re also getting into everything that gives hoops its heartbeat.”

Since transitioning from her playing career to sports analysis, Ogwumike has become a respected voice in sports media, covering both men’s and women’s basketball. She holds the distinction of being the first Black woman to host a national, daily sports talk radio show and the first athlete to be a full-time broadcaster while still playing professionally.

A Platform for Player Voices and Critical Conversations

Ogwumike shared her personal journey in pursuing this opportunity: “I’ve been fighting for this opportunity for a long time,” she told People magazine. “And I don’t take this for granted because I know I’m doing this for the players and for the locker rooms that I was in and for the moment that we’re in.” She emphasized the importance of providing a platform for players’ voices and acknowledged the need for critical analysis alongside praise. “What gives me the most joy is when I’m on-air in a moment that matters and I get players saying, ‘Thank you for being my voice’ and then also them understanding that I’m going to have to be critical, I’m going to have to talk about your great performance and I’m going to have to talk about your tougher performance.”

“Chiney Today,” produced by ESPN in collaboration with Omaha Productions, aims to unpack the week’s biggest moments in basketball, explain their significance, and bridge the gap between sports analysis and broader media conversations. Mike Foss, ESPN Senior Vice President of Sports Studio & Entertainment, praised Ogwumike’s ability to connect with audiences: “Chiney has an incredible ability to connect leagues, players, and audiences through both insight and authenticity. She’s a trusted voice across our basketball coverage, and Chiney Today gives her a platform to lead thoughtful, dynamic conversations that reflect how fans experience the game today.”

Where to Watch ‘Chiney Today’

Described as a space where “elite analysis meets real conversation,” “Chiney Today” will be available across multiple digital platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Fans can catch the debut episode featuring Rae and Lenae, following its preview at SXSW.