ESPN host Malika Andrews has found herself in the crosshairs of NBA fans’ online debates and controversies for years, but the criticism, particularly regarding her coverage of Black NBA players, has now reached an unsettling level. Andrews recently addressed these narratives, pushing back against accusations that she harbors bias in her reporting.
The backlash stems largely from high-profile moments, including her handling of off-court scandals involving NBA figures. It began prominently in 2022 when Andrews appeared on First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith, where they clashed over the dismissal of former Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka. Udoka was suspended for an inappropriate relationship with a female team staffer, and Andrews’ focus on holding him accountable drew sharp online reactions.
Since then, Andrews has continued to face scrutiny, whether for discussing No. 2 overall draft pick Brandon Miller’s past connection to a shooting or her measured coverage of the allegations surrounding Chicago Bulls forward Josh Giddey last season.
In a social media landscape where opinions run rampant, the discourse escalated. Figures like former NFL wide receiver Dez Bryant added fuel to the fire, amplifying perceptions that Andrews unfairly targets Black players while remaining lenient in covering others.
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On an episode of Dinners with DeMar, a YouTube mental health show hosted by NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan, Andrews spoke candidly about these accusations, emphasizing the toll such falsehoods have taken.
“That’s been the hardest thing for me sometimes, stomaching the falsehoods—particularly this idea that ‘you hate Black men,’” Andrews told DeRozan. “That couldn’t be further from the truth. And using my family or the way my family looks as evidence of that is just untrue and unkind.”
Andrews, who comes from a mixed-race family, married white ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin earlier this year. Critics often use her personal relationships to validate claims of bias, an approach Andrews finds both disturbing and deeply unfair.
Despite her frustration, Andrews acknowledged the need for accountability and self-reflection in her role. “That doesn’t mean that I’ve covered every story perfectly; it doesn’t mean that I don’t make mistakes,” she admitted. “But I think I’m pretty good at saying to you guys, ‘I could have been better there.’”
Andrews also spoke about her commitment to balancing empathy with the responsibilities of her profession. Drawing on her lived experiences—including her struggles with mental health—she approaches each story with sensitivity, particularly when reporting on topics that are personal or difficult for players.
“I try very hard to make it so that the things I’ve experienced, I try to keep that in mind when I’m talking about players,” Andrews explained. “I try to have that empathy and understand that I have a job to do, but also that I’m not here to play ‘gotcha.’”
Earlier this year, Andrews opened up about her struggles with depression, self-harm, and disordered eating in a People magazine profile. Growing up as a Black girl in a predominantly white Bay Area community, she often felt isolated, which contributed to her mental health challenges. After spending time in outpatient treatment centers and boarding schools, Andrews developed a personal resilience that continues to inform her work.
DeRozan, a vocal advocate for mental health in professional sports, provided a platform for Andrews to discuss how the scrutiny affects her. Rather than retreating, she remains determined to rise above the vitriol and focus on her work.
“I think it’s OK to say that these things hurt,” Andrews told DeRozan. “Especially when it’s not true. But I also know why I’m here, and I know the kind of work I try to do every day.”
Andrews’ transparency offers a rare look into the mental and emotional challenges that come with her role as one of ESPN’s leading voices. Her position—front and center during major NBA broadcasts—means she often bears the brunt of intense criticism. Yet, her perseverance, self-awareness, and empathy continue to define her approach to journalism.
Rather than shy away from the negativity, Andrews is leaning into it with a sense of responsibility and growth, determined to let her work speak for itself.
By sharing her struggles and remaining steadfast in her role, Malika Andrews is navigating a demanding industry with grace and fortitude, proving she is here to stay.
