Rich Eisen returned to the SportsCenter desk for the first time in 22 years, paying tribute to his late friend and former co-anchor Stuart Scott.
The broadcast featured throwback graphics and a montage of memorable Scott-Eisen moments.
Eisen reflected on what Scott might think of current sports news, including LeBron James’ continued career and Bill Belichick coaching at UNC.
Come for the nostalgia. Stay for the feels.
Longtime viewers of ESPN’s SportsCenter likely have fond memories of Rich Eisen and Stuart Scott teaming up on the nightly broadcasts decades ago.
The pair had undeniable chemistry together, and that chemistry was reflected in their friendship both on- and off-camera.
So when Eisen made his return to the SportsCenter desk for the first time in 22 years on Monday, Aug. 18, he made sure the viewers felt Scott’s presence as much as he did.
Along with some throwback graphics, the broadcast included a montage of Scott-Eisen moments from their past broadcasts and ESPN commercials.
Scott died January 4, 2015, at the age of 49 following a seven-year battle with appendiceal cancer.
‘I frequently think of Stuart — a lot — and what he might think of the sports headlines of the day. Like say, Bill Belichick being the head coach of his beloved school,’ Eisen noted, referencing Scott’s alma mater, North Carolina.
‘We used to host SportsCenters after LeBron’s high school games, so what would Stuart think of James still playing at age 40?’ he continued.
And he mused what it might be like if Scott were still around to join the ‘Inside the NBA’ crew of Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, Snaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley when they move to ESPN this fall.
‘I miss Stuart so very much,’ Eisen concluded. ‘He should be in that chair with me, with us, tonight.’