Molly Qerim: A Look Back At Her Legacy In Sports Media

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Molly Qerim has become one of the most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting, best known as the moderator of ESPN’s First Take. With news surfacing of her departure from the show and network, we thought it would be a great time to give her the flowers she deserves. Born on March 31, 1984, in New Haven, Connecticut, Qerim grew up in a culturally diverse household with roots in both Albania and Italy. From a young age, she displayed a passion for communication and sports, which carried her into higher education. She attended the University of Connecticut, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Business Administration. She later pursued a master’s degree in broadcast journalism from Quinnipiac University, further sharpening her skills for a career in media. MORE: Shana Renee Stephenson Is Reshaping How The World Views Women’s Sports Through hard work and determination, Qerim got her entry into the field. Molly started with ESPN’s digital and mobile platforms, working behind the scenes before stepping in front of the camera. Early on, she covered fantasy sports, college football, and mixed martial arts. She became especially notable for her work with the UFC, hosting pre- and post-fight shows that showcased her ability to handle fast-paced, high-energy sports coverage. Those years were essential to shaping her as a versatile broadcaster who could navigate multiple sports and appeal to diverse audiences. As she climbed through the ranks in the journalism and broadcasting world, Qerim’s professionalism and charisma led her to bigger opportunities. She took on roles with CBS Sports Network and ESPN, covering events like the NBA Draft, Super Bowls, and college football bowl games. Her ability to combine sports knowledge with a strong on-air presence made her stand out in a competitive industry. In 2015, she was named interim host of ESPN’s First Take following Cari Champion’s departure. Within months, she impressed both executives and viewers enough to be officially appointed as the moderator, a role in which she has thrived ever since. Molly helped transform the dynamics at First Take seamlessly. She gracefully served as the moderator between high-profile personalities, including Stephen A. Smith (previously Skip Bayless, Max Kellerman, Shannon Sharpe), managing fiery debates with a calm yet firm presence. Her role went beyond simply moving conversations along; she provided balance, injected thoughtful perspective, and ensured the debates stayed on track. In doing so, she carved out a respected space for women in sports media where female voices have historically been underrepresented. Qerim’s impact extends beyond her role as a moderator. She has become a trailblazer for women in sports broadcasting, showing that they can command spaces often dominated by men without being overshadowed. Her success on First Take has inspired younger women to pursue careers in sports journalism. She has proven that knowledge, preparation, and presence can break through barriers. By reshaping what it means to be a sports broadcaster and holding her own on one of ESPN’s flagship shows, Molly Qerim has not only elevated her career but also opened doors for the next generation of women in the field. Salute to Molly Qerim! We can’t wait to see what she has in store next. To honor her legacy, check out some photos of the trailblazer from over the years below.