Jason Whitlock has expressed his controversial opinion about ESPN’s decision to promote Doris Burke to premium NBA coverage following a major shakeup at the network.
Burke will now be part of the crew covering the NBA Finals, with Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson being let go. Whitlock, known for his provocative views, has criticized ESPN’s choice, claiming that Burke is not qualified for the job.
Despite his criticism, it’s worth noting that Whitlock has been vocal about ESPN since they parted ways with him in 2015.
Whitlock believes that Burke may not be able to freely express her opinions about NBA players and coaches due to the potential backlash and intimidation she may face.
“I absolutely love Doris Burke. She does a really good job, but she is not qualified to be the No. 1 broadcaster on the NBA,” Whitlock said on his ‘Fearless’ podcast.
“All of that is out the window. You place a woman in this spot – Doris Burke is good, but if you think she’s woman enough to criticize these multimillionaire NBA players and coaches, it’s not gonna happen,” he added.
“When one of those players looks over and glares or tries to intimidate, what’d you say? What do you know?’ And again, I know she played a little basketball but not in the NBA.”
Jason Whitlock destroys ESPN for promoting 'unqualified' Doris Burke to lead NBA analyst after Mark Jackson release pic.twitter.com/Omw6Tg6aUF
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He points out her lack of experience playing in the NBA, unlike Van Gundy who had a long coaching career and Jackson, a former NBA point guard.
It is speculated that Van Gundy’s outspoken criticism of NBA officiating led to his firing, while Jackson played a significant role in establishing the Warriors’ dynasty.
While Burke does have a basketball background, having excelled at Providence College, where she was an All-American and set records, Whitlock questions her ability to provide objective analysis in the face of scrutiny from NBA players and coaches.
Whitlock knows what moves the needle for his followers.
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