Kate Fagan

Kate Fagan's career in sports broadcasting began with her tenure as an ESPN sports reporter and commentator, establishing her as a respected figure in the world of sports journalism. Her expertise extended beyond reporting, with Fagan co-hosting the ESPN podcast "Free Cookies" and regularly appearing on the 538 podcast "Hot Takedown." As a former guard for the Colorado Buffaloes women's basketball team, Fagan brought a player's perspective to her reporting, culminating in her notable article "Owning the Middle," profiling basketball player Brittney Griner, which was included in the "Notable Sports Writing of 2013."

Alongside her broadcasting career, Fagan has made significant contributions as an author, beginning with her 2014 memoir "The Reappearing Act." The book offers a candid look at Fagan's experiences as a gay athlete on a college basketball team, making her a recognized American lesbian sportswoman. Her second book, "What Made Maddy Run," released in 2017, delves into the impact of social media on a young athlete's mental health, showcasing Fagan's keen understanding of the pressures faced by modern athletes. Her novel "The Three Lives of Cate Kay," published in 2025 and selected as Reese's Book Club's January 2025 pick, further underscores her talent as a writer.

As a lesbian athlete, broadcaster, and author, Fagan has used her platforms to champion LGBTQ representation in sports. Her marriage to yoga instructor Kathryn Budig in 2018, coupled with her public discussions around her identity, has helped to normalize conversations around LGBTQ issues in sports and beyond. Fagan's unique blend of personal experience, professional expertise, and dedication to advocacy makes her a significant voice in modern sports media and literature.