It’s always seemed like Shane Battier was destined for a TV gig upon retirement, and now it’s official. From The Big Lead:
Shane Battier, who said two months ago that he would be retiring after this NBA season barring an “act of God,” has agreed to a multi-year TV deal with ESPN to be a college basketball analyst next season, multiple people told The Big Lead.
It’s unclear yet if ESPN will use Battier, 35, as a game analyst, in the studio, or on the set of College Gameday, which is being revamped. Battier’s agent, Jim Ornstein, didn’t return a call today seeking comment. ESPN spokesman Josh Krulewitz said the network had “no comment.” The deal isn’t expected to be announced until after the Finals are complete. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal has not been announced.
