Zach Lowe is a well-known figure in the basketball world, celebrated for his sharp analysis and insightful commentary on the NBA. As a senior writer for ESPN, he built a reputation over his more than ten years with the network, having first joined Bill Simmons’ Grantland in 2012.
Lowe’s journey through the world of sports journalism has been marked by his keen understanding of the game, as well as his ability to break down complex strategies in a way that fans can appreciate. He also hosted the popular Lowe Post podcast and frequently appeared on NBA Today, making him a familiar face to basketball enthusiasts everywhere.
Unfortunately, the latest buzz in sports media reveals that Lowe is no longer with ESPN. According to Andrew Marchand from The Athletic, Lowe’s dismissal was part of a wave of layoffs that has recently hit the network, which also saw notable departures like Robert Griffin III and Samantha Ponder just before the football season kicked off.
Reports suggest that Lowe’s salary-over a million dollars a year-was a significant factor in the decision to let him go. As one insider noted, “His salary was the biggest factor in his dismissal from ESPN,” highlighting the tough choices networks face in today’s changing media landscape.
Is a high salary worth the risk in sports media?
Despite this setback, there might be a silver lining for Lowe. With NBC and Amazon ramping up their NBA coverage in anticipation of new rights agreements in 2025, opportunities could be on the horizon. Both networks are keen to bring in top-notch talent, and Lowe’s experience and credibility in the field make him a prime candidate for their future plans.
Interestingly, this shake-up in the sports media world comes on the heels of a surprising announcement from another basketball luminary, Adrian Wojnarowski. Woj, ESPN’s lead NBA reporter, revealed his departure to become the general manager of St. Bonaventure’s men’s basketball team. In a heartfelt message posted on X, he shared, “This craft transformed my life,” expressing his appreciation for the journey that sports journalism has taken him on.
As for Lowe, while the road ahead may seem uncertain, his contributions to the NBA discourse have been invaluable, and his passion for the game will surely lead him to new and exciting ventures. The basketball community will be watching closely to see where this talented writer lands next.
