Rich Eisen's 'This Was SportsCenter' Explores ESPN Show's Legacy

Rich Eisen’s project “This Was SportsCenter: Stories From the Set” gets behind the highlights of ESPN’s flagship show. The program serves as a retrospective on a series that has defined sports broadcasting for decades.

“SportsCenter” was launched in 1979 as the flagship show on the new cabler ESPN. Since its debut, it has become a cornerstone of the sports station. The show has transcended its role as a news program to become part of pop culture, as generations of Americans turn to the show to get updated on scores, highlights, and news.

The program's impact is further evidenced by its promotional campaigns. Its “This Is SportsCenter” commercials are classics, and much copied. These elements have solidified the show's status in television history.