ESPN New York considered pairing Michael Kay with John McEnroe

ESPN New York officials pursued a radio pairing between Michael Kay and John McEnroe before the launch of The Michael Kay Show in 2002. Negotiations with the tennis personality lasted several months but ultimately stalled due to scheduling conflicts, specifically McEnroe's desire to broadcast from his home in the Hamptons and his frequent absences for major tennis tournaments. Kay stated that he met with McEnroe in private to discuss the potential partnership, though the two disagreed on the creative direction and permissible topics for the program. Following the failed negotiations, the station paired Kay with Don La Greca. The two celebrated the 25th anniversary of ESPN New York this week, acknowledging that the station's alternative plan allowed the current on-air duo to form instead. La Greca credited the failed McEnroe deal as a defining moment for the station's radio history.

• 11:30 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN Radio wanted to pair Michael Kay with John McEnroe