MOLLY Qerim has posted on social media for the first time since her shock departure from First Take.
After 10 years as the host of the show, Qerim is moving on to new opportunities.
Molly Qerim https://www.instagram.com/p/DLaSWP-RYQH/[/caption]
Molly Qerim returns to Social media after Leaving ESPN[/caption]
Two weeks ago, Qerim abruptly decided to leave First Take.
Reports came out that she would leave at the end of the year, but Qerim decided not to return after the news leaked.
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take,” Qerim wrote on her Instagram story on September 15.
“Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honours of my career.
“Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate and entertaining voices in sports – and with all of you, the best fans in the world.
“I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.
“Stay tuned. With love and gratitude, Molly.”
It didn’t take long for Qerim to find a new opportunity after leaving ESPN though.
While it is only a one-off gig, Qerim was picked to moderate a Q&A with UConn men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley.
The event took place on Wednesday night at the Student Union Theatre on UConn’s Storrs campus.
Qerim is an alumnus of UConn, graduating in 2006.
She posted a picture on her Instagram Story with the UConn men’s basketball team before the event.
“Home,” she captioned the post with a heart emoji.
The post was Qerim’s first since announcing her First Take departure.
Molly Qerim’s life in the spotlight
Molly Qerim has risen through the ranks to become one of the biggest stars at ESPN.
The popular sports host began her media career in 2006 with ESPN and spent four years with the network.
She then covered college basketball and football for CBS Sports Network in New York.
Qerim balanced that with hosting duties for NFL Network in Los Angeles – fronting NFLAM and NFL Fantasy Live.
The host returned to ESPN in 2015 and immediately took the role of First Take anchor.
And Qerim has been an ever-present, popular host of the daily sports debate show ever since.
It is unclear if ESPN will hire a replacement for Qerim on First Take.
It is clear that she will be missed though, as Stephen A. Smith shared a tribute for her on the show.
“And to say that I’m quite sad about it is an understatement. Molly is a friend,” he said.
“Molly is a co-worker. Molly is somebody that I have leaned on on many occasions in the past as she has done when it comes to me.”
