As expected, it didn't take Chauncey Billups long to find work following his retirement in early September.
Billups was thought to have opportunities in coaching and front office positions, while also seeming a strong candidate for a move to television. It's the latter that's caught his eye for now, as Billups will join ESPN as a studio analyst for the coming NBA season.
The 2004 NBA Finals MVP will appear on NBA Tonight, SportsCenter, NBA Coast to Coast, ESPN Radio, and more, according to a report from Sports Illustrated.
“With my experience and passion for the game, I think I can spark interest with viewers,” Billups told the publication. “I think I have a unique perspective.”
While he's going to start out in the studio, Billups told SI that his long-term interest lies in being an in-game broadcaster. That long-term planning doesn't necessarily preclude a move to the coaching or management ranks, but those opportunities don't seem to be a focus right now:
I’m the kind of guy who has to be two feet in if I am going to give my best effort so broadcasting is something (I'm) looking at long-term. This is what I want to do and the avenue I want to take. At the moment, I’m not thinking about working in an NBA front office or coaching or anything else. I’m thinking about being the best I can be at ESPN in the studio.
This seems like a strong hire for ESPN, with little doubt that Billups will do well in the role.