The position has been vacant since 2020. Previously, the network utilized in-arena reporters, including Serena Winters and Taryn Hatcher, but eliminated those roles across its properties that year. Most recently, the network did not renew Hatcher’s contract following the 2025 season after freelance discussions failed to result in an agreement. Matcham noted that leaving the position unfilled for a second consecutive year is not viable given the team’s revamped roster.

“If you get a generational talent on your team, it could easily become a situation where the people that work for us are burnt out by December, and you don’t want that,” Matcham said.

The exact structure of the new position remains under review. Matcham emphasized that the network is not simply returning to the old model of a generalist reporter and is avoiding traditional job titles to prevent preconceived notions. One possibility involves hiring specifically for coverage of James, potentially bringing in someone with an existing relationship with the star rather than a general team beat writer.

Current market conditions show Comcast Corporation shares trading lower. The stock is currently priced at $23.67, down 3.78% from the previous close of $24.60. The company holds a market capitalization of approximately $80.9 billion and operates within the Communication Services sector.

What to watch

• NBC Sports Philadelphia’s official announcement regarding the new hire and the specific scope of the role.
• Future viewership ratings for Sixers broadcasts following the addition of LeBron James.

Source: original release