All-Female Broadcast for Celtics-Nets Game Honors Women’s History Month

Boston, MA – NBC Sports Boston is set to make history as it partners with the Connecticut Sun and Boston Celtics for the second-ever all-female telecast on Tuesday, March 18, during the Celtics’ matchup against the Brooklyn Nets at TD Garden.

Abby Chin, the network’s Celtics reporter, will take on play-by-play duties. She is accompanied by renowned sportswriter and author Jackie MacMullan, alongside Connecticut Sun guard Diamond DeShields, who will serve as analysts. This special telecast is a part of Women’s History Month celebrations.

Kayla Burton will host the pregame, halftime, and postgame coverage, while Jen Rizzotti, president of the Connecticut Sun, and Ashley Battle, a Celtics scout and assistant general manager for the Maine Celtics, will provide insights as studio analysts.

The game coverage will kick off at 7 p.m. ET with the “Celtics Pregame Live,” ahead of the 7:30 p.m. game tip-off. Viewers can catch the action on NBC Sports Boston or stream it via the NBC Sports app.

This year marks the second straight year that NBC Sports Boston has committed to airing an all-female broadcast for this significant occasion. Last season, Chin performed color commentary, joined by play-by-play announcer Zora Stephenson.

Chin, who has been a prominent figure in Boston sports since 2013, emphasized the importance of representation in sports broadcasting. “Having women in these roles is critical for inspiring future generations and showcasing the depth of talent in our industry,” she stated. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to call this game.”

Diamond DeShields has built a strong reputation in the WNBA, celebrating notable achievements including being selected third overall in the 2018 WNBA Draft, becoming an All-Star in 2019, and playing a pivotal role in the Chicago Sky’s 2021 championship. “It’s exciting to be part of a broadcast that celebrates women not just in sports, but in all sectors,” DeShields remarked.

Jackie MacMullan, a trailblazer in sports journalism, brings extensive expertise after working for major outlets, including ESPN and the Boston Globe. Her influence in the industry is underscored by multiple awards and a spot in the National Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame. “I believe that our voices in sports should resonate with authenticity, and it’s incredible to witness this shift toward inclusivity,” said MacMullan.

The Celtics’ recent performance against the Nets showcased their competitive spirit, with a close win of 115-113 in the last encounter. However, the team faces challenges as Jaylen Brown is ruled out due to knee issues, and Jayson Tatum’s status remains uncertain.

Regardless of the lineup, the historic broadcast promises to be a memorable experience, underscoring women’s growing presence in sports media. As fans tune in on March 18, they will witness not only a game but an evolution in how sports are presented.