James Salazar
Staff Writer
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put American sports on hold for the foreseeable future, but fear not, the Foghorn is here with a list of programs that are sure to fill whichever athletic void you have in your heart.
‘The Last Dance’ — ESPN, Netflix
A 10-part documentary miniseries, “The Last Dance” follows NBA legend Michael Jordan throughout his final season with the championship-winning 1997-98 Chicago Bulls. Using all-access footage as well as interviews from Jordan’s former coaches, teammates, and friends, the docuseries gives a never-before-seen look into the life of No. 23, a legend known for being quiet when it came to speaking with the media. Episodes are available for streaming on the ESPN app, as well as Netflix for those who are out of the country.
‘Game On!’ — CBS
Hosted by actor Keegan-Michael Key, “Game On!” will pit two teams of three — one led by multiple-time Grand Slam champion tennis star Venus Williams and Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski; the other led by comedians Bobby Lee and Ian Karmel — against each other in a series of over-the-top physical challenges, trivia, and field competitions. The third member of each team will rotate each week with a slew of sports stars, comedians, and celebrities. The series premiere is scheduled to air on May 20 at 8 p.m. EDT.
‘ESPN Daily’ — Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Hosted by sports journalist Mina Kimes and uploaded daily, Monday through Friday, ESPN Daily uses sports reporters and insiders as well as ESPN’s “30 for 30”-esque style of storytelling to keep listeners up-to-date with the latest news. Episodes include taking a deep dive into the 1990s escapades of NBA star Dennis Rodman and exploring the worlds of drug use and gambling in sports. No matter the topic, there is sure to be something for every sports fan to listen to as they get their day started.
‘All or Nothing: NFL’ — Amazon Prime Video
Though NFL action doesn’t take place in the summer months, there are still those who have made football a permanent fixture in their lives. Spanning five seasons, “All or Nothing” has covered five franchises: the Arizona Cardinals, the Los Angeles Rams, the Dallas Cowboys, the Carolina Panthers, and the Philadelphia Eagles. Viewers get an all-access look at the relationships that make up the very fabric of these teams.
‘Formula 1: Drive to Survive’ — Netflix
“Drive to Survive” showcases the incredible skills and tactics Formula One drivers must possess to make it in the pinnacle of motorsports. Lines are drawn as drivers of the same team are often pitted against each other in an effort to bring the greatest success to their bosses. From arrogant bosses to determined drivers, “Drive to Survive” is a hit for both motorsports fans and those who love the thrill of competition.
‘Cheer’ — Netflix
Focusing on the 14-time National Cheer Association Champion Navarro Bulldogs cheerleading squad and their quest for yet another title, “Cheer” takes viewers into a sport filled with devastating injuries, corporate greed, and cutthroat competition. In the span of six episodes, you will come to know those who make up the heart and soul of the squad, along with Monica Aldama, the Bulldogs’ fearless leader. With redemption stories aplenty, you’ll be speaking in “mat talk” before you know it.
KBO Baseball — ESPNFinalized in a deal this past week, ESPN agreed to a television deal with South Korea’s Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) to televise their baseball games for their 2020 season. This comes as the first live sports on television in about two months, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Games will be televised between the lovely hours of 1 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. EDT, so set your alarms and get ready to play ball.
