Skip Bayless, an American sports columnist, departed from Undisputed and Fox Sports 1 on August 2, 2024, after eight years with the network. The 72-year-old NBA analyst’s final episode of the show aired on Friday. Upon leaving, Bayless, who recently called himself the most hated man in all sports media, stated that he would be looking for other opportunities to entertain his fans. However, recent reports from an NBA insider suggest a different outcome for Bayless. According to Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports, Bayless’s TV career is ‘over’ following his sudden departure from Undisputed and Fox Sports.
“Industry sources believe that Skip Bayless’s time on TV is “over,” per @MMcCarthyREV “This is a tough spot for Skip. His run is over,” Via NBA Central.
Industry sources believe that Skip Bayless’s time on TV is “over,” per @MMcCarthyREV
“This is a tough spot for Skip. His run is over,” 😬 pic.twitter.com/Pqq7gEIXxm
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 4, 2024
Bayless worked for ESPN, hosting several shows from 2004 to 2016. The 72-year-old NBA analyst joined Fox Sports 1 in September 2016 to debut the show “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed” alongside former NFL player Shannon Sharpe. However, following a lengthy tenure, Sharpe left the show and FS1 in 2023.
NBA Analyst Pays Tribute to Skip Bayless Following His Departure from Undisputed
The show “Undisputed” owes much of its popularity to Bayless, who is known for criticizing LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers. Along with co-hosts Paul Pierce, Keyshawn Johnson, and Shannon Sharpe, he shared his thoughts on various NBA events. During his time on Undisputed, the 72-year-old commentator engaged in debates on a variety of subjects. However, after leaving the show, he shared his thoughts in his recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter).
“Today was my last show on Undisputed. I’m leaving FS1. I’ve been planning to pursue other opportunities for several months. I had a great 8-year run with a lot of great people at FOX, but now I’m excited for what’s coming up. Stay tuned.” Bayless wrote.
Following Bayless’ exit from the show, Nick Wright, host of First Things First on FS1, honored Bayless by referring to his time there as “a truly legendary run.”
“Very few people, in any industry, can say they helped create & define an entire genre. ‘Skip did that. Salute & good luck in whatever he does moving forward.” Wright wrote.
Despite the rumors and speculation spread about Bayless, fans will never forget the NBA analyst for his confidence in voicing his opinions during debates.
