After the New York Times published an audio recording in which Nichols made disparaging remarks about Maria Taylor, the sports network decided to make the move.
The recording of last year shows Nichols complaining that Taylor was selected to cover the NBA Finals. He said it was partly because ESPN has a “crappy longtime record” on diversity.
Nichols issued a statement apologizing. Taylor has not commented.
A second reporter was selected to cover the 2021 NBA Finals. It began Tuesday.