Recently, I saw Pam Oliver—you know, on the sidelines—presenting just high-level professionalism. All the players respect her. She asks great questions, and you can tell she actually cares. As a former athlete, she brings insight to her reporting. She was eventually replaced by Aaron Andrews and Charissa Thompson.
What’s really fascinating about Pam Oliver to me is her genuine calmness and high level of interest in how individuals are feeling. She knows not to ask questions at the wrong time—there’s a gut feeling, wisdom, and understanding in the way she works. It reminds me of Lynn Jones, who recently gave words of encouragement to Jacksonville Jaguars coach Liam Coen. Even though he seemed dialed in after a great season, he felt defeated, and her support mattered.
For anyone from the Black American community, you know that feeling: the grandmother, mother, or sister whose words of wisdom you hold onto during difficult times. This is more than just sports—it’s recognizing that these individuals are human.
Now, contrast that with many voices in today’s sports media. A lot of them are clickbaiters, hot-take commentators—they chase viral moments without caring about the impact of their words on athletes. You can critique performance, but some things said are downright disrespectful. People like Stephen A. Smith and Nick Wright often say things about individuals they wouldn’t say to their faces.
The fact that amazing Black women reporters like Pam Oliver and Lynn Taylor focus on covering the sport and the human element is remarkable. They remind us that these athletes—and coaches—are people first, and their reporting reflects care, respect, and true professionalism.
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