Chiney Ogwumike Finds Success as ESPN Analyst and Former WNBA Star

The basketball analyst and show host discusses her career journey from the court to the broadcast booth.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:00pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering sequins and glittering textures, capturing the glamorous and high-contrast aesthetic of sports media.Ogwumike's journey from WNBA star to ESPN analyst showcases the glamour and high-stakes energy of sports broadcasting.Los Angeles Today

Chiney Ogwumike, the ESPN basketball analyst and show host who played for the Los Angeles Sparks and the Connecticut Sun, opens up about her career journey from the WNBA to broadcasting. She shares insights on navigating a male-dominated industry, developing her own coaching and work style, and the importance of authenticity and confidence in her role.

Why it matters

Ogwumike's story highlights the challenges and opportunities for women in sports media, particularly as they transition from being professional athletes to becoming analysts and broadcasters. Her experience provides inspiration and guidance for young women looking to forge their own paths in the industry.

The details

Ogwumike, a former WNBA Rookie of the Year and two-time All-Star, initially worked as a receptionist at her middle school and a referee for middle school basketball games before embarking on her broadcasting career. She was the first person to be a full-time broadcaster and a full-time athlete, a path that was initially scary but ultimately rewarding. Ogwumike has had to navigate the male-dominated world of sports media, facing questions about her expertise and credibility. However, she has built up years of credibility and is now respected for her knowledgeable and authentic opinions. Ogwumike has developed her own coaching and work style, including watching back her own performances, slowing down her speech, and maintaining a self-care routine of hot yoga and skincare.

  • Ogwumike was the WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2014 and earned two All-Star titles.
  • Ogwumike now hosts the semiweekly ESPN podcast 'Chiney Today' on all things basketball.

The players

Chiney Ogwumike

An ESPN basketball analyst and show host who played for the Los Angeles Sparks and the Connecticut Sun, winning the WNBA's Rookie of the Year Award in 2014 and earning two All-Star titles from the league.

Michelle Obama

A former First Lady of the United States who Ogwumike would want for leadership guidance on her dream team.

Beyoncé

A renowned musician who Ogwumike would want on her dream team for expertise on building and maintaining a flawless personal brand.

Michael Strahan

A former NFL player who transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, providing a great example of a career pivot that Ogwumike would want to learn from.

Tems

A Nigerian musician who Ogwumike admires for her authentic African identity.

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What they’re saying

“There's so many young women now that say, 'I want to be a broadcast journalist because I saw you do it.' I love that, because I didn't see anyone do it! I had to say, 'What does this look like?' and then see if it could work.”

— Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN Basketball Analyst and Show Host

“Sometimes your feelings, especially insecurities, aren't facts, you know?”

— Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN Basketball Analyst and Show Host

What’s next

Ogwumike will continue to host her semiweekly ESPN podcast 'Chiney Today' and provide analysis for the network's basketball coverage.

The takeaway

Ogwumike's journey from WNBA star to successful ESPN broadcaster demonstrates the power of perseverance, authenticity, and a willingness to try new things. Her story inspires young women to pursue their passions and break down barriers in male-dominated industries.