Just like NBA teams, it looks like networks will have some negotiations with their players this summer. In recent hours, we’ve learned that ESPN and one of their most prominent talents could part ways this month over salary disputes.
Maria Taylor, 34, has become one of the most famous faces of the company in recent times. According to reports, the so-called ‘worldwide leader in sports’ values the reporter but not as much as she’d like. In their recent extension talks, ESPN offered Taylor $5 million, which she declined.
According to Andrew Marchand of The New York Post, Maria is looking to make the same amount as Stephen A. Smith, one of the most important analysts on the network.
Taylor, sources said, was hoping to be in the “Stephen A. Smith money” neighborhood, which is near $8 million annually.
But since the initial near $5 million offer was made during last year’s pandemic, the world at ESPN has changed even further. With Disney closely watching the network’s pocketbook, the majority of big earners at ESPN are being asked to take pay cuts.
After that initial offer was rejected, the company offered the reporter around $2 million, $3 million. This new decision makes things more difficult for them, as Taylor could find new opportunities with different platforms.
The 34-year-old has found support in her co-hosts, especially Jalen Rose, who took a subtle jab at ESPN before Game 6 of the 2021 Western Conference Finals.
“If you’re great at what you do, you deserve the bag,” Jay Williams said before the Suns vs. Clippers game.
“If that’s the case, Maria needs a raise,” Rose responded.
Jalen Rose says Maria Taylor needs a raise on NBA countdown amid reports she turned down $5 million/yr contract extension from ESPN https://t.co/k2VZfn1V61
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) July 1, 2021
Marchand mentions Amazon and NBC as possible destinations for Taylor, covering NFL. ESPN has let important people go in recent times, and as much as they like Taylor, who College GameDay and NBA Countdown, paying that much money doesn’t seem likely for them right now.
