Long-time ESPN stars reunite on Twitch after network's controversial decision to let SportsCenter hosts walk

Long-serving SportsCenter duo Stan Verrett and Neil Everett are teaming up to launch a new show on Twitch after their controversial ESPN departures.

Verrett, 59, and Everett, 63, co-hosted the popular sports news show together for 14 years and became a much-loved pairing during that time before the latter left ESPN in 2023.

After being offered a reduced salary to stay on board, as part of a cost-cutting exercise at the network, Everett turned down that pay cut and waved goodbye after 23 years.

Just under two years later his famous broadcasting partner followed him out the door, albeit after ESPN chose not to renew his contract and end his 25-year association with the company.

Their respective exits sparked anger amongst fans who had become accustomed to watching them on their SportsCenter screens for well over a decade.

And five months on from Verrett's departure, he is set to reunite with Everett on the Stan and Neil show, which will air on streaming service Twitch. 

'The show promises a unique blend of sports insight, personal stories, and humor, featuring a rotating lineup of special guests from sports, entertainment, and media,' a statement posted on Verrett's X account reads. 'From athletes and coaches to celebrities, every episode will deliver unpredictable and engaging conversations.'

Verrett also said: 'Neil and I have shared some incredible moments over the years, and I can't wait to bring that energy to a digital audience. We're excited to build something special from the ground up.'

After leaving ESPN, Everett - who was born in Portland - has continued to work as an announcer for his home city's NBA franchise, the Trail Blazers. But now he is ready for a new challenge.

'As much as I've enjoyed my life as a semi-retiree, the opportunity to work with Stan and Jeff [Anderson, producer] was too good to pass up,' he added. 'Time to shake the rust off and go!'

The show will be produced by Anderson, a former SportsCenter and First Take producer who worked with the pair at ESPN's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut. 

Once streamed live on Twitch, it will also be available on YouTube and other social-media platforms.