Lisa Leslie was one of the stalwarts of the WNBA during its early years. The 6-foot-5 center was a key figure for the league when it was established in 1997.
After a memorable college stint with the USC Trojans, Leslie carried over her dominance at the professional level. She played her entire WNBA career with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
In 12 years in the WNBA, Leslie won the MVP title thrice, the Defensive Player of the Year twice, was named an All-Star eight times and was included in the All-WNBA squad in all 12 seasons, among other things.
Leslie also won two WNBA championships, bagging Finals MVP honors on both occasions. She was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
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Since retiring in 2009, Leslie has remained active around the league. She transitioned into broadcasting and has now emerged as one of the most respected analysts in the game.
Leslie received some career news on Wednesday following CBS Sports’ new deal with the WNBA. According to an official press release, CBS Sports and the WNBA “have expanded their seven‑year partnership through a new long‑term, multiplatform rights agreement.”
Part of the deal includes the return of the network’s pregame, halftime and postgame studio show, “The WNBA Tipoff Show.” The program returns with Leslie as the analyst. She will be joined by fellow WNBA icon Renee Montgomery as a second analyst. The show will be hosted by Jenny Dell.
Apart from CBS Sports, Leslie has also worked for several sports networks in the past, including NBC, ABC and Fox Sports.
CBS Sports also announced the return of its lead broadcast team. Jordan Kent will provide play-by-play commentary, Isis “Ice” Young will be the analyst, while Tiffany Blackmon will handle sideline reporting.
The new WNBA season will tip off on May 8.
