From sideline reporting to national broadcasts, Black women have been responsible for shaping the way we experience sports media for decades.

They are trailblazers, tastemakers, and truth-tellers who bring heart, depth, and authenticity to the field while carving new lanes for the next generation. Whether they’re reporting live from the Olympics, the NBA Finals, the Super Bowl, or building platforms that elevate women’s sports, these 11 women are changing the game, one broadcast at a time.

Pam Oliver

A true trailblazer, Pam Oliver changed the sideline game with more than 25 years of reporting in the NFL. Her insightful reporting and deep understanding of the game have earned her a huge stake in the legacy of sports reporting.

Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts pioneered the pivot from sports to mainstream news. She started on ESPN as a sports anchor before becoming a household name by co-anchoring Good Morning America.

Jemele Hill

Jemele Hill is a fearless journalist and cultural commentator who is never afraid to speak truth to power. The Emmy Award-winning journalist is also the co-founder of Lodge Freeway Media and frequently addresses pressing societal issues as a contributor for The Atlantic.

Cari Champion

Helping to revolutionize First Take as we know it today, the former SportsCenter anchor has a dynamic presence in sports journalism, thanks to her commitment to storytelling and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Maria Taylor

The first female full-time host of NBC Sports’ Football Night in America, Maria Taylor is a pioneer in sports media, having covered everything from the NFL Draft to the Olympics. Her work as a leading broadcaster has been solidified through not only her engaging presence but also the insightful analysis she’s known for.

Taylor Rooks

No one does one-on-one interviews with athletes like Taylor Rooks. Appearing everywhere from Thursday Night Football to Bleacher Report, TNT Sports, and beyond, Rooks has a knack for connecting with sports figures in a way that offers audiences and fans a unique peek into their lives and careers.

Malika Andrews

Malika Andrews’s work during the NBA bubble is widely acclaimed, but this host of ESPN’s NBA Today’s rise to prominence directly results from her comprehensive coverage of the league.

Chiney Ogwumike

A woman of balance, Chiney Ogwumike alternates between roles as a WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst. She brings firsthand experience to her commentary by bridging the gap between athletes and audiences through enriching sports discussions.

Arielle Chambers

As the founder of HighlightHER, Arielle Chambers has been dedicated to amplifying women’s sports and cultures before it became a trend. Her platform has quickly become a vital space for championing female athletes and their stories.

Camille Buxeda

As the Director of Women’s Basketball at Octagon, Camille Buxeda hones in on elevating female athletes while expanding the often limited opportunities available to them. Thanks to her leadership, the future of women’s basketball is in great hands.

Melani Carter & Simran Kaleka

This friend duo is the co-founders of Made for the W, a platform that intersects women’s sports and sneaker culture. Melani Carter and Simran Kaleka’s work highlights the influence and style of female athletes while simultaneously fostering a community that celebrates performance and fashion.

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