Elle Duncan and ESPN part ways completely over her move to Netflix: sources

ESPN and Elle Duncan will part ways completely as she moves to Netflix to become the new face of the streaming service’s burgeoning sports programming, sources briefed on the decision said. Athletics.

Athletics reported Monday that Duncan was heading to Netflix. Although there was pessimism about her remaining at ESPN as the lead anchor for women’s basketball, it was still possible. That door has closed, according to sources briefed on ESPN’s decision. ESPN declined to comment.

There is no animosity between Duncan and ESPN as she is reportedly a favorite of network president Jimmy Pitaro. In addition to her on-air work as host of the WNBA Finals, Women’s Final Four and daily SportsCenter at 6 p.m., she also participated in the network’s Upfronts (annual presentations of upcoming programming) for advertisers and took part in other corporate events.

That said, Netflix is ​​increasingly becoming a competitor to ESPN. The network has refused Netflix to use its on-air personalities for its NFL games this Christmas. Last year, ESPN let on-air stalwarts like Mina Kimes and Laura Rutledge work for Netflix.

Duncan’s deal with Netflix provides a substantial increase in his ESPN salary and will allow him to work significantly less. Netflix has the rights to NFL Christmas games, three MLB events including Opening Day in March between the New York Yankees and San Francisco Giants, and the Women’s World Cup in 2027. Netflix is ​​expected to add more. Duncan may also work some non-sporting events.

Duncan could still appear on other networks or platforms as part of his Netflix deal. Netflix will have first rights in the event of conflicts, if it lands other gigs.

Duncan’s current contract runs through the end of the year, so it’s possible she could be on ESPN within the next month. Netflix might try to see if they can get her out early to make her first appearance this Christmas.