After a remarkable decade as the anchor of First Take, Qerim recently shared her decision to leave ESPN, marking the end of a chapter that firmly established her as one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. The announcement, which came a bit earlier than expected, was met with a wave of respect from both colleagues and fans — a true testament to the legacy she has created.
From Connecticut to Center Stage
Molly Qerim’s journey kicks off in Cheshire, Connecticut, where she was born to an Italian Catholic mom and an Albanian dad. This rich cultural mix would later shape the depth and understanding that characterize her presence on air. After earning her degree in communications from the University of Connecticut and a master’s in broadcast journalism from Quinnipiac University, Qerim was gearing up for the big leagues long before she ever set foot in a studio.
She got her start at CBS Sports Network, where she hosted shows like SEC Tailgate and Bracket Breakdown, quickly proving she could stand her ground in the male-dominated realm of sports media. Her adaptability really stood out as she covered everything from college football and UFC to fantasy sports and even red-carpet events at Super Bowls and All-Star Games. This wasn’t just a job for her — it was a hands-on education in the industry from the very beginning.
The Heartbeat of First Take
In 2015, Qerim stepped into the role of host for First Take, ESPN’s dynamic debate show featuring Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman, along with a rotating cast of guest debaters. Her job was no walk in the park: she had to navigate strong personalities, steer conversations with insight, and maintain a balance of energy and fairness. Yet, she managed to do it all with a calm demeanor that made it seem effortless.Amidst the bright lights and intense discussions, Qerim was the glue holding everything together — the voice of reason, the quick-witted interjector, and the compassionate listener when conversations got personal. Stephen A. Smith himself recognized her significant impact, referring to her as “somebody that I have leaned on” and an irreplaceable part of the show’s success.
More Than a Broadcaster: Advocate and Inspiration
Away from the spotlight, Qerim has been candid about her personal struggles, including her battle with severe endometriosis — a condition that impacts millions of women. By sharing her story, she has sparked important conversations and provided hope to many who see her as a beacon of strength and authenticity.
Her marriage to fellow ESPN personality Jalen Rose in 2018 was a notable partnership in the sports media world. Although they eventually parted ways, she has consistently approached her personal life with the same poise and grace that she brings to her professional endeavors.
What’s Next?
As Molly Qerim prepares to step away from ESPN at the end of 2025, it’s only natural to wonder: what’s next for her? If her career has taught us anything, it’s that she’s always full of surprises. Whether she chooses to stay in media, dive into production, write, or take on speaking engagements, her intelligence, warmth, and authority will surely shine through.She’s leaving behind a transformed landscape — one where women not only have a seat at the table but can truly lead the conversation. Molly didn’t just host a show; she took it to new heights. She didn’t merely report the news; she became an integral part of the story.
So here’s to Molly Qerim — the quiet powerhouse, the brilliant mind, the voice of reason amid the whirlwind of sports debate. While her chapter at First Take may be coming to a close, her impact is just beginning to unfold.
đź‘Ź Want to stay updated on Molly’s next adventure? Follow her journey on social media and keep an eye out — the best is yet to come.
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