Molly Qerim (Photo via Instagram)
ESPN has named Molly Qerim’s replacement after her abrupt departure last month.

Qerim, a co-host on the network’s flagship show, ‘First Take’ since 2015, announced her exit on the night of September 15, confirming she was leaving the company shortly after news leaked online.

While the original report noted that she would be leaving at the end of the year, it turned out to be an effective immediately situation.

According to Front Office Sports, Shae Cornette has been chosen as her successor.

“Shae Cornette will be named host alongside Stephen A. Smith, the network confirmed to Front Office Sports,” the outlet reported.

The Worldwide Leader in Sports previously experimented with a rotating panel of hosts, including Cornette, Peter Schrager, Amina Smith, MJ Acosta, Courtney Cronin, and Joe Fortenbaugh.

Cornette seemingly made the most significant impression.

“Shae is meticulous in her preparations, connects naturally with our show’s high-profile personalities, and has a unique ability to keep lively debate engaging and on point,” ESPN executive vice president David Roberts told FOS. “Her professionalism, presence and energy make her an ideal fit for First Take and a great addition to one of ESPN’s most successful franchises.”

Shae Cornette Has Plenty Of Experience At ESPN

Shae Peppler Cornette (Photo via Instagram)
Cornette has been with the network since 2020, having previously worked in Chicago media for ESPN 1000, FOX 32, and ABC 7. Since joining ESPN, she’s anchored ‘SportsCenter’ and served as a TV and radio studio host.

ESPN president of content Burke Magnus admitted last month that Qerim’s departure occurred quicker than initially planned.

It’s since been reported that her “insulting” salary was the reason for her decision to leave.

Stephen A. Smith, who landed a new role shortly after she left, makes a reported $20 million yearly. He also works as a producer for ‘First Take’, so it’s believed that he would have had to approve Cornette taking over for Qerim.

The outspoken host addressed the shocking development on the show the following morning, expressing disappointment after having worked with his former co-host for over a decade. But he would not divulge the reason for her decision, leaving it open to speculation.

Luka Doncic ‘destroys’ the Mavs on his return. Gets standing ovation and shows love to Mark Cuban

Luka Doncic hits 45 points in his first game in Dallas since being traded to the Los Angeles.

It’s rare for a home crowd to cheer the visiting team, but Luka Doncic’s return to Dallas was no ordinary night.

Just days before February’s trade deadline, the Mavericks shocked the NBA by sending their 26-year-old superstar to the Lakers—a move that outraged fans and sparked backlash toward GM Nico Harrison.

On Wednesday, Doncic played his first game back in Dallas since the trade. The arena was filled with fans in both his old Mavs and new Lakers jerseys, many chanting “Fire Nico” in protest.

Despite the emotion in the air, Doncic delivered a dominant performance, scoring a game-high 45 points to lead the Lakers to a 112-97 win. It was a powerful return for one of the league’s brightest stars—and a night Dallas won’t soon forget

The Mavericks pay tribute to Luka Dončić

While the Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic remains heavily criticized, they handled his return to Dallas with undeniable grace. The organization made sure his first game back as a Laker was met with respect and appreciation.

Every seat in the arena was draped with a T-shirt reading “Hvala za vse,” which translates from Slovenian to “thank you for everything.” It was a thoughtful nod to Doncic’s heritage and impact on the franchise.

Before tip-off, during the starting lineup announcements, the Mavericks played a tribute video showcasing some of Doncic’s most iconic moments in a Dallas jersey. The emotional gesture clearly resonated—moving Doncic to tears in front of the crowd that once called him their own.

Luka Doncic ‘DESTROYS’ his old team

Luka delivered a dazzling performance against his former team, putting up 45 points on 16-of-28 shooting, including 7-of-10 from beyond the arc. He also added 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals in a game that showed exactly why he’s one of the best in the league.

From the opening tip, Doncic was locked in. By halftime, Doncic had racked up 31 points on 11-of-16 shooting in just 19 minutes—marking the 10th time in his career he’s scored 30 or more in a single half.

Though his scoring slowed in the second half, he continued to lead effectively, securing both a Lakers win and an unforgettable showing for the fans in Dallas.