Elle Duncan made the tough decision to leave ESPN in December. That being said, she seems to be thriving in this next chapter of her career.
Duncan worked for NESN and Atlanta’s NBC-TV affiliate before joining ESPN and becoming a “SportsCenter” anchor. She specialized in covering the WNBA and women’s college hoops. Her success led to her receiving a multiyear deal from Netflix this winter. She’ll make her debut on the streaming platform this Friday on “Skyscraper Live.” Before embracing her new role at Netflix, she said farewell to the Worldwide Leader In Sports.
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“Leaving when things are good is the hardest part. But growth rarely asks politely. Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it nudges. And sometimes it tells you—clearly—that it’s time,” Duncan wrote on Instagram. “And I’m listening. So thank you, ESPN, for the dream, the trust, and the space to become. I hope I served you well. I’ll carry this place with me—always.”
As part of Duncan’s deal with Netflix, she has the freedom to take on assignments with other networks. Apparently, she’s going to take full advantage of that flexibility.
Apr 4, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; ESPN analysts Andraya Carter (left), Elle Duncan (center) and Chiney Ogwumike pose prior to a semifinal of the women’s 2025 NCAA tournament at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
(© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Double duty for Duncan.
Richard Deitsch of Sports Business Journal reported Thursday that Duncan will be a studio host for USA Network’s inaugural coverage of the WNBA.
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“Last September, the WNBA and Versant announced an 11-year media rights agreement for USA Network to air WNBA games, including the regular season and portions of the playoffs and WNBA Finals in select years,” Deitsch noted. “The deal begins with the 2026 WNBA season and runs through 2036.”
USA Network announced that Renee Montgomery will work alongside Duncan. As for the network’s in-game commentary, Kate Scott and Meghan McPeak will be the play-by-play broadcasters, Sarah Kustok will be a game analyst, Paris Lawson will be a host/reporter, and Edona Thaqi will serve as an additional reporter.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Jan 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports Media section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
