In the aftermath of ESPN’s decision to part ways with Samantha Ponder, the host of *Sunday NFL Countdown*, former *SportsCenter* anchor Sage Steele has stepped forward to offer her support, hinting that the world is about to see a new, unfiltered side of Ponder. Steele, who has been outspoken herself since leaving ESPN, took to social media to express her admiration and solidarity with Ponder, suggesting that this may be the beginning of an exciting new chapter for her friend.
Steele, visibly emotional in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), didn’t hold back in her praise for Ponder. “This is another loss for ESPN, but it is a gain for literally the rest of the world because now you’re going to see the true Sam Ponder,” Steele said, alluding to the challenges Ponder faced while working at the sports network. She expressed hope that people are ready to see what Ponder has to offer, calling her a “gem.”
Their friendship, rooted in shared values and faith, has clearly been a significant source of strength for both women during their time at ESPN. Steele credited Ponder with teaching her valuable lessons about faith, resilience, and standing tall in the face of adversity. “Samantha has taught me so much about God, about scripture, about the Bible, about not giving up and about standing tall,” Steele shared, emphasizing how Ponder remained steadfast in her beliefs, even when the environment at ESPN made it difficult.
Steele’s remarks came shortly after ESPN announced the departures of both Ponder and football analyst Robert Griffin III, reportedly due to budgetary cuts. The timing of these decisions, particularly in the highly competitive world of sports broadcasting, has sparked discussions about the network’s direction and the potential impact on its programming.
While Ponder has yet to publicly address her departure, Steele’s comments suggest that Ponder is viewing this change as a blessing in disguise, a sentiment grounded in their shared faith. “Sam already knows that this is such a blessing that God is bestowing upon her because there’s so much more for her to do,” Steele said, expressing confidence in Ponder’s future endeavors.
Steele, who left ESPN in August 2023 following a settlement of her own lawsuit against the network, has become more vocal about her experiences since her departure. She sued ESPN after being taken off the air in 2021 for comments about the company’s COVID-19 vaccine policy, a move she said infringed on her First Amendment rights. Steele has since embraced her newfound freedom to speak openly, and it appears she believes Ponder will similarly thrive outside the confines of ESPN.
As Ponder prepares for the next chapter in her career, Steele’s support underscores the deep bond they share, forged through their shared challenges at ESPN. With Steele by her side, Ponder seems poised to step into the spotlight with renewed purpose and conviction.
Robert Griffin III was also fired and made comments similar to those of Ponder.
I love you, @samponder ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2IMwURVfMN
— Sage Steele (@sagesteele) August 15, 2024
