ESPN’s Malika Andrews, at 29 years old, is well-known as the host of ESPN’s NBA Today, NBA Countdown, and the first woman to host the NBA Draft. However, in a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, Andrews opened up about a secret trauma she faced as a teenager that led her to spend three years in residential therapy institutions. She shared her struggles for the first time, shedding light on her ongoing battle with mental illness.
Throughout her career at ESPN, Andrews has shown her resilience and dedication, from quarantining for 107 days as a reporter inside the NBA’s COVID bubble to becoming a prominent figure in the male-dominated sports industry. However, behind her success lies a painful past that she has kept hidden for many years.
Growing up in Oakland, California, Andrews was a biracial kid who felt like she stood out in her predominantly white private school. Despite being a strong student and well-liked by her peers, she began to struggle with mental health issues at a young age. By the age of 12, she exhibited signs of disordered eating and started experiencing depression and anxiety.
Her battle with mental illness escalated, leading to therapy sessions and eventually being placed in a psychiatric hold after admitting to thoughts of self-harm. This marked the beginning of a challenging journey that would keep her away from her family for over three years. Andrews’ parents made the difficult decision to seek help for their daughter, leading her to various therapy programs, including a controversial wilderness therapy program in Utah.
During her time in these institutions, Andrews faced strict rules and monitoring, which exacerbated her struggles with eating disorders and self-harm. Despite the challenges she faced, one source of solace for Andrews was her interactions with horses. She found joy in riding lessons and developed a strong bond with a horse named Dante, which provided her with a sense of purpose during dark times.
After returning home in 2012, Andrews had to navigate the challenges of reintegration into daily life, feeling like she had missed out on many typical teenage experiences. However, she found solace in studying journalism at the University of Portland and delving into storytelling and reporting. Despite relapsing with her eating disorder in college, Andrews found a way to overcome her struggles and pursue a career in journalism.
Today, Andrews continues to battle mental illness but remains resilient in her journey toward healing. With the support of her family, fiancé, and ongoing therapy, she strives to manage her mental health and find balance in her life. By sharing her story, Andrews hopes to inspire compassion and understanding for those facing similar struggles and break the stigma surrounding mental health.
In conclusion, Malika Andrews’ journey is a testament to her strength and courage in facing her demons and finding light in the darkness. Her story serves as a reminder that mental illness is a complex and ongoing battle that requires compassion, support, and understanding. By sharing her experiences, Andrews hopes to empower others to seek help and know that they are not alone in their struggles.
