Holly Rowe will serve as the sideline reporter for ABC’s broadcast of the WNBA All-Star Game on Saturday at the University of Connecticut, marking three decades of her involvement with the league. Rowe has been connected with the WNBA since its founding, beginning her career by working behind the scenes for the Utah Starzz, a franchise now known as the Las Vegas Aces.

Last weekend, adverse weather in the Northeast disrupted travel plans for ESPN’s lead WNBA broadcast team. Ryan Ruocco and Rebecca Lobo, who typically join Rowe for national WNBA coverage, were unable to reach Dallas for Sunday’s noon game between the Los Angeles Sparks and Dallas Wings. To address the situation, ESPN coordinating producer Rodney Vaughn arranged for White Sox television announcer John Schriffen, then calling NBA Summer League games in Las Vegas, to step in as play-by-play commentator. Vaughn decided against bringing in an additional analyst, expressing confidence in Rowe’s deep knowledge of the league.

“We said, ‘We’ve got Holly Rowe,’” Vaughn explained. “There’s not going to be another analyst that knows this league that could come in and do something in a one-game situation better than Holly.” With less than 24 hours’ notice, Rowe transitioned into an analyst role for national WNBA coverage for the first time.

Rowe acknowledged the nerves she felt before the game. “I was super nervous,” she said. “I had butterflies in my chest.” She cited advice from former WNBA star Tina Thompson, passed on to Wings veteran Alysha Clark: “Trust the work.” Drawing on her extensive experience, Rowe delivered insightful commentary during the broadcast, highlighting players’ backgrounds and skills.

Vaughn praised her performance, noting Rowe’s ability to provide detailed analysis typically offered by seasoned insiders. He pointed to Rowe’s observation of Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale’s athletic style, comparing her moves to those of an NFL running back—a perspective informed by Rowe’s background knowledge, including Ogunbowale’s family ties to football.

Rowe’s enduring presence in WNBA media coverage, from backstage roles to on-camera reporting and now analysis, underscores her unique position within the sport’s broadcasting landscape as she commemorates 30 years supporting the league.