Title:GEMA Alumni Spotlight – Monica McNutt (C’11), Basketball Analyst, Host, and Reporter at ESPN and MSG Networks

Monica McNutt (C’11) is a commentator, basketball analyst and reporter. For ESPN, she can be seen on studio shows like Get Up and First Take as well as NBA on ESPN coverage. She’s also the New York Knicks’ radio analyst and part of MSG Networks’ Knicks pre- and post-game coverage.

What was your first “big break”? Or, what is the most significant experience you have had that has made your success possible?

Calling women’s basketball was my foray into the industry, and a personal highlight was calling UConn vs. South Carolina when they were the number 1 and 2 ranked teams in women’s basketball. Next to that, I worked on a project with MSG networks and Overtime to do a fun simulcast of a Knicks game versus the Lakers. That was my introduction to MSG Networks. 

What is the most challenging part of your job? What is the most rewarding part?

The most challenging part is keeping up. Basketball season is a grind for all involved, and to do your job well it requires dedicated time to prepare. The most rewarding parts are definitely inspiring those behind me and the connections you make with players, fans and lovers of basketball. 

What is something current you are working on that you are excited about?

I think this year’s WNBA playoffs are going to be so much fun, and they’re right around the corner. Women’s basketball interest is at an all-time high and it’s been so much fun to be part of that. 

How is the ever-changing media landscape affecting your industry?

Athletes don’t really need media to get their messages out thanks to social media. I also think the line between reporting and opinion has continued to get murky, as has the line between media members and social media influencers. The beauty of the landscape is there’s a lane for just about every voice, but it requires fortitude to push through the noise. Gambling is probably the biggest game changer impacting the landscape right now, especially when you think about collegiate sports. I also hear from players that the gambling interest has caused fans to become more verbally abusive.

Are there any ways that you feel Georgetown especially prepared you for your career?

Georgetown is the foundation of my career. It’s a place that helped me find my voice and develop the basketball eye that would be critical to the career I continue to build. My time on the women’s basketball team, particularly the two years that I was a team captain, helped me develop self-awareness which has benefited me tremendously personally and in the workplace. At the root of media is the ability to communicate, which requires understanding your audience. I remember a number of classes and discussions on the Hilltop the centered on community and understanding. While I am in front of the mic professionally, I still value community and understanding and want to remain respectful of the people that I’m privileged to cover. 

What is your best advice to those who are starting out in your field?

Two things:

1. Develop a healthy relationship with the word ‘no’. Be able to receive it without it decimating your hopes and dreams, and to use it to protect yourself. You will get so many ‘no’s’ through the course of your career, especially as you are starting out, but you just need one ‘yes’ to start the momentum. Count your ‘no’s’ as a ladder to ‘yes’.
2. Build a life and not just a career. Early in my career I wanted so badly to achieve what I’m doing now, but honestly I’m thankful that it took time to get here because the journey is so important. Be present where you are. Change is the only thing in life that is truly inevitable, so soak up all the learning opportunities and life that you can in each season that you’re in. Absolutely spend time perfecting your craft, getting the reps, but also acknowledge the other things that you enjoy and carve out time for them. You being well-rounded and a healthy human helps you connect with the athletes you’ll cover and your coworkers because — surprise, surprise — you’re all human.

Best Business Advice Received:

Follow your passions, the money will come. — Is that business advice? Not sure, but I’m a fan. 

Trait You Most Admire in People: 

Honesty. However, people who use the line “I’m not mean, I’m just honest” are usually mean; honesty can be gentle. 

Favorite App, Website, Podcast or Social Platform (other than related to your own company):

Oura Ring — I get excited about my sleep stats and readiness score. I could do without social media, although it’s a necessary evil. I’d lean toward Instagram as a favorite. Podcasts: Queens of the Court with Sheryl Swoopes and Jordan Robinson,  The Good Word with Goodwill, and Healed Girl Era Podcast with Gia Peppers are in my regular pod listening rotation. 

Favorite Georgetown Professor:

Father Kemp! Honorable shoutout to Athelia Knight who was my first journalism professor.

Favorite Georgetown Restaurant or Bar:

The Tombs used to have an amazing sweet potato soup. When I’m in town with the Knicks I still order a Wisey’s breakfast sandwich. 

Favorite Georgetown Memory:

Beating Maryland to advance to the Sweet Sixteen my senior year.

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