MSG Networks Hires Talaya Wilkins as VP of Content Strategy

MSG Networks has hired Talaya Wilkins as Vice President of Content Strategy as it looks to add to its growing content division. In her role, Wilkins will lead a newly formed team designed to drive the network’s overall content strategy, with an increased focus on developing programming targeted at the growing sports betting audience.

Wilkins, an award-winning producer at ESPN, will spearhead the creation of new content across MSG Networks’ linear, digital and social channels, while helping to identify on-air talent and influential content creators that can broaden the company’s appeal and build viewer engagement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Talaya, who comes to MSG Networks after creating and overseeing so many critically acclaimed programs and specials at ESPN,” says Kevin Marotta, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Content Strategy, MSG Networks. “Talaya is charged with leading our sports betting initiatives, while also bringing a fresh approach to developing content for New York area sports fans of all ages and interests.”

Prior to joining MSG Networks, Wilkins spent 14 years at ESPN, where she most recently served as Managing Producer on ESPN+, overseeing a dozen studio shows and original series including Stephen A.’s World, Detail (helmed by the late Kobe Bryant) and More Than An Athlete S2. She also had production stints on a variety of popular ESPN programs including Get Up, SportsCenter, First Take, NBA Countdown, His & Hers, SC6 and Outside The Lines, as well as on the network’s coverage of various remote events including the ESPYs, the NBA Finals and select college football bowl games.

Wilkins has received four Emmy nominations throughout her career, most recently for her work on The Undefeated Special, The Stop: Living, Driving and Dying While Black. She was also selected to serve as a board member for ESPN’s Employee Resource Group, P.U.L.S.E. (People United to Lead, Serve and Excel), and Content Chair for the Inclusive Content Committee. Wilkins holds a Bachelor of Science in Business, Marketing Management from Siena College and played Division-I Women’s Basketball for the Saints.