On June 23, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder won its second NBA Championship after defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91 in Game 7 of the Finals. However, whereas the game-winning victory should have been the story, most of what has been happening after the game has been on the outrage front over to the ESPN broadcast team, especially the demonstration of commentator Doris Burke.
Social media was brought to its knees during and following the game; some fans have asserted that the broadcast crew of the game ruined a classic moment that could have been kept in NBA history. The debate has brought about a new topic of discussion of the current commentary crew at ESPN and how they should be changed in the coming NBA season.
Doris Burke Faces Harsh Fan Backlash
The target of online attacks was led by Doris Burke, who at the time became the first woman to ever hold the role of a full-time NBA Finals analyst for a major television network. There were viewers who did not feel her voice and her style of commentary fit the Game 7 setting, and most voiced their dissatisfaction regarding her tone and pace that did not blend well with the action.
A particularly popular post declared Burke “the worst basketball announcer in the history of the NBA” and that her presence on the microphone ruins the Finals. Some more objectively noted her qualifications and basketball expertise, but wondered why her unorthodox style was a good choice to broadcast such a prominent one.
Nevertheless, it is not the first time that Burke has caused polarized responses among the audience. Although she has always been highly regarded in the NBA and the journalism world, a portion of the fan base has not been as receptive, especially in peak events.
Mike Breen and ESPN Defend the Commentary Team
Longtime NBA Finals voice Mike Breen, who is the play-by-play announcer of the league, went public in backing his television colleagues. In a statement to react to the backlash, Breen stated, “I am amazed by Doris and Richard [Jefferson] and their work ethic and their caring factor to get it right.”
Breen’s defense emphasized the preparation and professionalism that goes into every ESPN broadcast. Internally, sources say that the ESPN team is “very aware” of the mixed feedback but stands by its decision to elevate Burke into the Finals commentary seat. However, ongoing speculation about a possible shake-up continues to circulate.
Could ESPN Make Changes to Its Lead NBA Team?
According to a recent report by The Athletic, ESPN had already been considering changes to its top NBA broadcast trio even before the Finals began. The network reportedly sees value in reshaping its approach for the 2025–2026 season, possibly moving back to a more traditional analyst format or introducing new voices entirely.
Industry insiders suggest that while ESPN values diversity and breaking barriers—as evidenced by Burke’s historic role—they are also highly sensitive to audience feedback, especially during major events like the NBA Finals. The question now becomes whether the network will stay the course or respond to fan reaction by making changes before next season’s tip-off.
A Broader Discussion on Representation and Expectations
This controversy highlights a broader tension in sports media: the gap between progressive inclusion efforts and traditional fan expectations. Burke’s presence represents a push for more diversity in sports broadcasting, a move applauded by many in the industry. However, the immediate backlash reveals how difficult it can be to shift public opinion in spaces long dominated by a familiar few.
Critics of the outrage argue that Burke is being unfairly singled out, pointing to how male commentators rarely face the same volume of harsh personal criticism for performance-based concerns. Supporters have also noted her deep knowledge of the game, years of experience, and professionalism under pressure.
