In an unexpected move, Sports Nation and SportsCenter Coast to Coast host Cari Champion will be leaving her post at ESPN after seven years with the company. She made the announcement via Twitter on Jan. 9.
“After consulting with mentors, family and friends, I have come to the decision that it’s time to leave ESPN.”
Champion worked at the Tennis Channel before moving to ESPN’s First Take. Later, she would host her own show on the network.
“Over the past 7 years, I’ve grown from hosting First Take to having my own show on SportsCenter, and experiencing so much more in between,” she added. “ESPN will always be apart of my legacy and I am proud to have been a part of their’s. I’m excited about the next chapter and will share soon!”
Champion’s departure is the latest in an exodus of talent from the fledging network. Over the last three years, popular sports commentators Jemele Hill, Skip Bayless and Chris Broussard have all joined the influx of departures.
So far, there is no word on what will be Champion’s next venture. Champion’s post will be filled by Elle Duncan and Matt Barrie after she departs at the end of January.
