I Attended NYABJ's 'Behind the Scenes of Sports Journalism' Panel

Event Flyer by NYABJ

This Tuesday, the New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ) hosted its monthly panel. The event, moderated by President Bonita Sostre, offered an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at sports journalism, featuring CBS Sports On-Air Reporter Keiana Martin, Senior Director of the CBS Sports Race + Culture Unit David Cummings, CBS Basketball Writer Jasmyn Wimibish, and CBS Sports Associate Director Justin Haley.

Keiana Martin, CBS Sports

The industry experts shared their journeys, behind-the-scenes moments, creative processes, and advice for aspiring sports journalists. Keiana Martin kicked off the discussion, describing her path from studying sports marketing to becoming a prominent sports journalist. She emphasized the importance of investing in oneself and being open to new opportunities. Although not having studied sports journalism in college, she took courses post-grad to develop her craft, and four years later ended up securing an opportunity to intern at the Kansas City Chiefs. Now as an on-air reporter, Martin stressed the importance of being an expert in one's field, noting that "as a woman of color, people are ready to prove that you're wrong."

The panel advised aspiring journalists to be over-prepared, to network and build relationships, and to seek out mentorship opportunities. David Cummings encouraged the audience to be brave and reach out to people in their desired field, even if they were at a 'higher level,' emphasizing that "closed mouths don't get fed." Cummings credited his mentors, including former Vice President of ESPN Leon Carter, with helping him navigate his career transition from print journalism to CBS Sports.

Justin Haley, CBS Sports

Justin Haley shared his journey, highlighting the importance of networking and building relationships. He recalled joining the Philadelphia chapter of NABJ, where he met Stephen A. Smith and gained valuable insights into the industry. These connections ultimately led him to work with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he secured a letter of recommendation from Coach Mike Tomlin that helped him land a job at CBS Sports, despite initial rejection. Haley emphasized the importance of perseverance, stating "Even if you don't get your initial goal, anything is your stepping stone."

Jasmyn Wimbish, CBSSports.com

Jasmyn Wimibish highlighted the importance of connecting with professors and being multifaceted as a journalist. "Jobs want journalists that can write, can podcast, can be on camera – there's no limit to the skills you can develop in this field."

The discussion concluded with the panelists sharing their favorite experiences and accomplishments. For Keiana and Justin, this included attending and covering major sporting events like the Super Bowl. David Cummings reflected on his memorable interview with Mike Tyson after the boxer's release from jail. Meanwhile, Jasmyn highlighted her insightful conversation with former Chicago Bulls player Craig Hodges regarding the 2020 Milwaukee Bucks' protest against police brutality and systemic racism, sparked by the killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor.

Overall, the panel was a truly informative event that uncovered key takeaways for aspiring journalists, who can apply these lessons to their own careers, seeking out opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with others in the industry.