FOX SPORTS FIRES PAUL PIERCE, MICHAEL IRVING AND OTHER DUE TO ALLEGED POOR RATINGS BUT KEEP DOUG GOTTLIEB

In a surprising move, Fox Sports has recently laid off several prominent analysts as part of a broader restructuring effort, yet retained Doug Gottlieb, a polarizing figure whose radio show and media presence have reportedly underperformed in ratings. The decision has sparked debate among industry insiders and fans, raising questions about the network’s priorities and Gottlieb’s unique role within the organization.

Wave of Layoffs at Fox Sports

Over the past few months, Fox Sports has significantly reduced its on-air talent roster, parting ways with several well-known analysts and commentators. While specific names and numbers remain unconfirmed, sources within the industry suggest that the cuts are part of a cost-saving initiative driven by shifting media consumption trends and financial pressures. The rise of streaming platforms and changing viewer preferences have forced traditional sports networks to reevaluate their budgets, with high-profile talent often bearing the brunt of these changes.

The layoffs have not been publicly detailed by Fox Sports, but reports indicate that both television and radio divisions have been affected. Analysts who provided commentary across college football, basketball, and other sports have been let go, leaving fans and colleagues stunned. These moves align with broader trends in sports media, where networks like ESPN and NBC have also trimmed staff to adapt to a digital-first landscape.

Doug Gottlieb’s Retention: A Curious Decision

Amid these cuts, Doug Gottlieb remains a fixture at Fox Sports, continuing to host The Doug Gottlieb Show on Fox Sports Radio, which airs weekdays from 3–6 p.m. ET, while also serving as a basketball analyst for FS1. Gottlieb, a former NCAA point guard and long-time media personality, is a divisive figure known for his unfiltered takes and controversial moments. However, his show has reportedly struggled to attract strong listener numbers compared to competitors in the same time slot, such as ESPN’s The Paul Finebaum Show or other syndicated programs.

Industry metrics, though not publicly detailed, suggest that The Doug Gottlieb Show lags behind in key markets, with lower audience engagement than other Fox Sports Radio programs like The Herd with Colin Cowherd. Despite this, Gottlieb’s contract was renewed, and he continues to juggle his media duties with his role as head men’s basketball coach at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, a position he assumed in May 2024. This dual role, outlined in a unique contract with a “conflict management plan,” allows Gottlieb to maintain his radio show while coaching, a setup that has drawn scrutiny for its potential to dilute his focus.

Why Keep Gottlieb?

Several factors may explain Fox Sports’ decision to retain Gottlieb despite his reportedly poor ratings.

Gottlieb’s relatively low salary compared to other high-profile analysts may make him a cost-effective choice. As networks tighten budgets, retaining a multi-role talent like Gottlieb, who can fill airtime across radio, television, and podcasts, may outweigh the need for higher-rated but more expensive personalities.

Industry and Fan Reactions

The decision to keep Gottlieb while cutting other analysts has sparked mixed reactions. Some industry observers argue that Fox Sports is prioritizing loyalty and versatility over pure performance metrics, while others see it as a misstep in a competitive media landscape. On social media platforms like X, fans have expressed frustration, with posts questioning why Gottlieb remains while more popular analysts have been let go. One user wrote, “Fox Sports is bleeding talent but keeps Gottlieb? His show’s numbers are a joke compared to Cowherd or Finebaum. What’s the logic?” Others, however, defend Gottlieb’s basketball expertise and work ethic, noting his ability to juggle coaching and broadcasting.

Gottlieb himself has addressed criticism head-on, as seen in a December 2024 episode of his show where he responded to backlash over his “Nobody U” comment. “I’m not hiding from anybody,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to both his media and coaching roles. “We’re not going anywhere. The show’s not distracting me; I just need to be better at both of my jobs.”

The Bigger Picture

Fox Sports’ layoffs reflect broader challenges in the sports media industry, where traditional networks are grappling with cord-cutting, declining ad revenue, and the need to invest in digital platforms. The decision to retain Doug Gottlieb, despite his reportedly low ratings, suggests a strategic bet on his versatility and potential to grow his audience, particularly in basketball coverage. However, it also highlights the tough choices networks face as they balance cost-cutting with maintaining a competitive edge.

As Fox Sports navigates this transition, the focus will remain on whether talents like Gottlieb can deliver the engagement needed to justify their place in a shrinking roster. For now, Gottlieb’s unique blend of coaching and broadcasting keeps him in the game, even as others are shown the door.