Florida Volleyball Icon Mary Wise Embarks on Bold New Chapter as ESPN’s Premier Voice for Women’s College Volleyball…Read More…
Gainesville, FL — After an illustrious coaching career spanning over three decades and reshaping the landscape of collegiate volleyball, Mary Wise—arguably the most celebrated figure in Florida volleyball history—is stepping into the spotlight in a whole new way. ESPN announced today that Wise will be joining its broadcast team as a lead analyst for women’s college volleyball, signaling a powerful new era for both the sport and its growing national audience.
Wise, whose name is synonymous with dominance, innovation, and leadership in women’s volleyball, will bring her wealth of knowledge and signature passion to television screens across the country this fall. As ESPN continues to expand its coverage of NCAA women’s sports, Wise’s appointment is seen as both a strategic move and a tribute to her status as one of volleyball’s most respected voices.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mary Wise to the ESPN family,” said Amanda Brooks, Senior Director of Programming and Talent at ESPN. “Her understanding of the game is unmatched, and her ability to break down strategy, emotion, and execution will elevate our coverage of college volleyball to new heights.”
From the Court to the Commentary Booth
Mary Wise is no stranger to firsts. In 1991, she became the youngest head coach of a Division I volleyball program when she took over at the University of Florida. Since then, she has led the Gators to 25 Southeastern Conference (SEC) championships, numerous Final Four appearances, and a historic NCAA runner-up finish in 2017.
Now, Wise becomes one of the few high-profile women to transition from elite coaching to national sports broadcasting in a leading analyst role.
“I’ve always been passionate about growing the sport of volleyball,” Wise shared in an exclusive interview. “This opportunity with ESPN allows me to be part of the game from a different angle—one where I can help fans understand the depth, complexity, and beauty of what happens on the court.”
A Voice the Game Has Long Needed
As college women’s volleyball continues to grow in popularity—especially following record-breaking attendance numbers at major events like the NCAA Final Four and Big Ten regular season matches—Wise’s move to ESPN is being hailed as timely and transformative. Her presence is expected to not only educate new audiences but also highlight the nuances that often go unnoticed by casual viewers.
Former players, colleagues, and media figures have praised ESPN’s decision, saying Wise’s voice will provide invaluable context and credibility.
“Mary Wise is one of the smartest minds in volleyball, period,” said Karch Kiraly, head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team. “She’s going to bring an energy and insight that will inspire future players and educate viewers in ways we haven’t seen before.”
Elevating Women’s Sports
Wise’s appointment is also a major step forward for women in sports media. While female analysts are becoming more visible in coverage of basketball, soccer, and softball, volleyball—a sport dominated by women at the collegiate level—has long lacked a consistent expert voice on national broadcasts.
That’s about to change.
“Representation matters,” said ESPN anchor Elle Duncan. “When young girls see someone like Mary Wise—brilliant, experienced, and respected—they not only see a path to the court but a future beyond it.”
Wise will debut during the 2025 Women’s College Volleyball Kickoff Classic on August 24, which features a showdown between perennial powerhouses Texas and Nebraska. The broadcast will air on ABC, marking one of the first times women’s volleyball takes center stage in a national primetime slot.
A Farewell, But Not Goodbye
Though many Florida fans are understandably emotional about Wise’s retirement from coaching, the move to ESPN isn’t a farewell to the sport—it’s a continuation of her lifelong mission: to elevate volleyball at every level.
“I’m not leaving the game I love,” Wise explained. “I’m just changing seats.”
University of Florida Athletics Director Scott Stricklin called Wise’s departure from the sidelines “bittersweet,” but said the program is “incredibly proud” of what she’s built and looks forward to seeing her amplify the sport on a national scale.
“Mary put Florida volleyball on the map,” Stricklin said. “And now, she’s going to put college volleyball on a bigger one.”
The Legacy Continues
Even as Wise transitions away from daily practices and game-day huddles, her fingerprints remain on the Gators program and the sport as a whole. Many of her former players have gone on to become coaches, mentors, and even broadcasters themselves.
Wise sees her new role not just as a job, but as a platform.
“Every time I step behind that microphone, I’ll be thinking about the next generation of coaches, athletes, and fans. My job now is to open that door wider—for them.”
With Mary Wise behind the mic and ESPN ramping up its volleyball coverage, the future of women’s college volleyball has never looked more electrifying. For fans old and new, one thing is clear: the game is in very wise hands.
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