Tuesday, July 27, 2010

ESPN gets hammered – and rightfully so

Whether it wasnt to admit it or not, ESPN sold its journalistic soul for the LeBron James epic decision a few weeks ago.
It basically paid for the exclusive interview and the content, a no-no unless you are TMZ or the National Enquirer.
Visit espn.com, click on "columns" and then the Ombudsman link. Don Ohlmeyer wrote a wonderful recap of the ESPN debacle ... it's a long read but worth every ounce of energy and second of time.
I'm not surprised .. sad but not surprised. It's all about ratings these days, especially at ESPN, without regard for anything resembling good old-fashioned reporting and avoiding things like paying for stories.
What amazes me is that there are no solid guidelines for ESPN and its reporters to handle such things. And they've been in the business for 30-something years.

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