Stephen A Smith has issued a heartfelt statement following Molly Qerim's departure from ESPN.
It was announced on Tuesday morning that Qerim, who had hosted ESPN's First Take, will leave the broadcaster after 19 years.
During her time on television, she established herself as a respected voice on the NBA and NFL, earning widespread credit for her style of presenting. Qerim had hosted First Take, which is ESPN's main morning sports show since 2015.
She is the latest departure from the show following Shannon Spice's exit earlier this year. Qerim did not appear on First Take on Tuesday, which allowed Smith to open the show with a tribute to his colleague.
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He said: "She's hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise, her incomparable kindness. She's been an enormous part of our success for a decade.
"Not only did she keep me and many others in line, she did it with dignity, class and kindness to say the least."
Smith added that he and others at ESPN will miss Qerim and wished her well for the next stage in her career.
ESPN had offered Qerim a new contract to continue with the show, but she chose to decline the offer.
No official reasons for her exit have been released, but Qerim addressed her departure in a statement on social media.
She said: “Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped.
“To my First Take family, after much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.
“Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honours of my career.
“Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world.
“I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.
“Stay tuned. With love and gratitude, Molly.”
Qerim had earned a reputation as one of the most popular and respected presenters in American sports broadcasting.
After her departure, it leaves ESPN in a challenging position of trying to find a suitable replacement for the widely admired presenter.
Topics: Basketball, ESPN, NBA, Stephen A Smith
James Taylor