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The ESPN NBA studio in Los Angeles recently introduced technological enhancements, including Virtual Reality 2.0 for the NBA Countdown and NBA Today analysts.

The VR technology takes fans into a virtual NBA environment where 2023 NBA Champion head coach Michael Malone as well as analysts Kendrick Perkins and Chiney Ogwumike (NBA Today) will be immersed in the virtual NBA action. This technology made its debut during ESPN’s 2025 Western Conference Finals coverage and returns with an upgraded version featuring photo realistic player avatars and a stabilized first person POV.

Meanwhile, ESPN also announced its new-look NBA Countdown team that will lead pregame and halftime coverage for select NBA on ESPN game nights throughout the season. The new team will debut this Wed., Nov. 19, at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN and the ESPN App.

Senior Writer Brian Windhorst, who recently reached a multi-year extension with ESPN, will join the NBA Countdown cast. Windhorst joins Malone and Perkins as analysts. NBA Countdown will continue to be hosted by Malika Andrews, who is leading the show for the third season.

Additionally, Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania will continue to make regular appearances contributing news and information to the NBA Countdown show.