Bomani Jones Says ESPN Was “Fascinated” by the Idea of a Smart Black Man

Former ESPN commentator Bomani Jones transitioned to HBO in 2022 and recently reflected on his time at ESPN, where he featured prominently on various programs, including “Outside The Lines” and “Around The Horn,” which concluded its impressive 23-year, 4,953-episode journey. His significant breakout emerged with “Highly Questionable” alongside Dan Le Batard from 2012 to 2017. During a recent chat on “The Matt Jones Show,” Jones candidly addressed his experiences with Le Batard, suggesting that his role as a highly intelligent Black man enhanced the show's dynamic. He noted, “Dan was fascinated by the idea that a Black person could be this smart,” while emphasizing his reluctance to serve merely as a representative or fulfill a diversity quota. Now, Jones hosts his popular podcast, “The Right Time,” which covers sports and societal themes, returning listeners to his dynamic insights.