Former ESPN Star Molly Qerim Grabs Attention In Knicks Jersey
Former ESPN star Molly Qerim appears to be enjoying the NBA playoffs.
Qerim was the host of ESPN's "First Take" for roughly a decade before signing off for the last time in September 2025. She said she created "lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories" during her time on the show, but she decided it was time for a new chapter.
"After much reflection, I've decided it's time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports - and with all of you, the best fans in the world," Qerim said. "I'm so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes."
So what has Qerim been up to? Clearly, she's been cheering on the New York Knicks.
Prior to Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, Qerim shared a photo of her wearing a Knicks jersey.
"Heart is with the Knicks, but head says Sixers," Qerim wrote on X. "No OG and assuming Embiid gives it a shot."
Luckily for Qerim, the Knicks found a way to take a 3-0 series lead despite not having OG Anunoby on Friday night. Jalen Brunson led the charge with 33 points on 11-of-22 shooting.
Why did Molly leave ESPN?
Although nothing has been confirmed at this time, Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo suggested that Qerim left ESPN because she didn't want to work on an expiring contract.
"I think she precipitated it. … I think, probably, she felt embarrassed," Russo said, via the New York Post. "I didn't talk to her about the specifics of why she decided as soon as it was in the Sports Business Journal, but that's what I'm thinking - that she probably would have felt embarrassed if the world would have thought that she was a lame duck and she was still doing the show. So, that I think that probably had a little something to do with it."
Stephen A. Smith hasn't revealed the reason for Qerim's departure, but he offered his support earlier this year.
"I miss Molly because I love Molly as a person and as a friend," Smith said. "I know what kind of a person she is, so because of that I don't look at her as just as a host, I don't look at her as just a colleague. We worked together for 10 years. Nobody is ever going to come say something negative to me about Molly Qerim. I will always support her because it's beyond the professional."
As of this time, Qerim has not accepted another broadcasting gig. Maybe that'll change before the start of the 2026 NFL season.
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This story was originally published May 9, 2026 at 2:36 PM.