Rich Eisen made a poignant return to ESPN’s SportsCenter on August 18, 2025, marking his first appearance on the program in over two decades. The broadcast, which followed the preseason NFL game between the Washington Commanders and the Cincinnati Bengals, featured a special tribute to Eisen’s late co-host and close friend, Stuart Scott. Scott, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 49 after a battle with appendiceal cancer, had been a beloved figure in sports broadcasting, known for his unique style and catchphrases like “Boo-yah!”
During the segment, Eisen, visibly emotional, addressed the absence of his longtime friend. “It has been a blast being here tonight,” Eisen began, “but we all know there should be someone else right here in this chair next to me.” He pointed to the empty seat beside him, adding, “Right there, as he was for my seven years in the role he referred to as ‘my TV wife.’ And that’s my dear late friend Stuart Scott, who is indeed looking over my shoulder tonight.”
Reflecting on Scott’s impact, Eisen speculated on how his friend would have reacted to current sports headlines, such as Bill Belichick coaching at his alma mater and LeBron James continuing to excel in his 40s. Eisen also mused about what it would have been like if Scott had joined the Inside the NBA crew as it transitions to ESPN this fall. “He should be in that chair,” Eisen concluded, his voice thick with emotion.
The tribute resonated deeply with viewers, many of whom took to social media to express their appreciation for the heartfelt moment. Eisen’s return to SportsCenter coincides with the upcoming debut of The Rich Eisen Show on ESPN+, Disney+, and ESPN’s direct-to-consumer platforms on September 2, 2025. While continuing his role at NFL Network, Eisen’s expanded presence at ESPN underscores the enduring legacy of his partnership with Scott and their lasting impact on sports journalism.
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