ESPN talent including Malika Andrews and Stephen A. Smith have reportedly been tormented by a man to the point that Andrews recently filed a restraining order.
It’s claimed that in court documents Andrews – the 28-year-old host of NBA Today – accuses Ahmed Abubakar, 41 of New Jersey, of harassing and threatening her, Smith and his fellow ‘First Take’ host Molly Qerim.
According to TMZ, Andrews claims that what started with messages on X – formerly known as Twitter – back in September 2022 escalated to the point that Abubakar turned up to ESPN offices and Qerim’s home.
In alleged messages, released by TMZ, Abubakar brands Andrews a ‘malignant c***’ and a ‘gold digging… b**** and w***e.’
Abubakar is also accused of writing on social media: ‘I hope endometriosis destroys all your genital organs so that you never get a man.’
Malika Andrews has reportedly been tormented by a man to the point that she recently filed a restraining order
‘First Take’ host Stephen A. Smith is another alleged victim of the harassment and threats
He was allegedly arrested in August for turning up unannounced to Qerim’s house in Conneticut, while Andrews says he found her unlisted phone number and called her several times.
A recent visit he is said to have made to ESPN’s Los Angeles facility left her fearing for her safety.
Last week, it’s said, Andrews asked a judge to ensure Abubakar stays at least 100 yards away from her and others including Smith.
Hours later, the TRO was reportedly granted, with a hearing slated for later this month.
Abubakar is said to have turned up to ESPN offices and the home of Molly Qerim (pictured)
Meanwhile, longtime MLB reporter Jim Caple died Sunday at the age of 61, his family announced on social media.
Caple spent 17 years at ESPN from 2001-2017 covering baseball, before most recently working as a features reporter for The Athletic.
His wife, Vicki, announced his death on Facebook, writing on his account, via ESPN: ‘My person, best friend and husband died on Sunday afternoon.
‘We all love Jim Caple so much and he loved you. Many great times, laughs and adventures with all of us with Jim. Go in peace my love.’
A cause of death has not yet been announced but his family said on social media that he had ALS and dementia.