YES Network announced that they will be giving Brooklyn Nets sideline reporter, Sarah Kustok a promotion. Kustok, who has been with the network for five years, will now serve as a full-time game analyst. The reporter was a frequent guest analyst for the network.
Michael Grady will assume Kusok’s duties on the sideline. Mike Fratello, who also commentated on Nets games will be moving to a studio role, YES announced.
The network released a statement, making the moves official:
While multi-Emmy Award-winning Ian Eagle will continue to split play-by-play duties with Ryan Ruocco, Sarah Kustok, who has been YES’ Nets courtside reporter the past five seasons, will now become YES’ primary game analyst. Kustok will become the only woman to work as the primary solo NBA game analyst at a regional sports network.
She periodically worked as a Nets game analyst for YES the past three seasons. YES veteran and fellow Emmy Award-winner Jim Spanarkel will split game analyst duties with Kustok.
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“These moves strengthen what is already considered by fans and NBA insiders alike as the best local television team in the NBA,” said John J. Filippelli, President of Production & Programming, YES Network. “Sarah has proven herself time and time again throughout her five years covering the Nets for us, and Mike’s move to the studio will enable us to take full advantage of his Xs and Os acumen gained from more than 40 years in the NBA. We also welcome Michael Grady, an Emmy Award winner in his own right, who should fit in seamlessly, having already worked for the Indiana Pacers and having handled a variety of media roles in Indianapolis.”
More and more women are getting the chance to analyze men’s professional basketball. Doris Burke expertly breaks down NBA games for ESPN. Charlotte Hornets’ Stephanie Ready calls games regularly for the team.
