Taylor Rooks is a name that continues to rise in the world of sports journalism and media. Known for her unique interviewing style, sharp insight, Taylor Rooks and magnetic on-screen presence, Rooks has carved out a space in an industry traditionally dominated by men. As a broadcaster, journalist, and cultural influencer, she blends sports coverage with meaningful conversations that go beyond the game.
Whether she’s interviewing athletes like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, or Deion Sanders, or hosting in-depth segments on race, identity, and personal growth, Taylor Rooks brings a level of depth and authenticity that has helped her become one of the most recognizable faces in sports media today.
In this article, we take a detailed look at who Taylor Rooks is, her career journey, signature style, impact on journalism, and her growing influence across the media landscape.
Early Life and Education
Taylor Rooks was born on May 22, 1992, in St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Coming from a family with a strong sports background, Rooks was immersed in athletics from a young age. Her uncle, Lou Brock, was a Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, and her father, Thomas Rooks, was a top rushing leader at the University of Illinois.
This athletic lineage naturally influenced her interest in sports and storytelling.
Rooks attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she majored in broadcast journalism. While in college, she interned with Comcast SportsNet Chicago and reported on Big Ten Network events, quickly showing promise as a future media star. Her early work focused on college football and basketball, helping her build credibility in the sports reporting field.
Breaking Into Sports Media
Taylor Rooks’ career took off quickly after college. One of her first major roles was with the Big Ten Network, where she served as a host and reporter. Her on-camera charisma, quick thinking, and deep sports knowledge made her stand out.
Soon after, she joined SportsNet New York (SNY), covering the New York Knicks, Jets, and college basketball. But it was her transition to Bleacher Report and Turner Sports that brought her widespread attention. Rooks became known for her long-form interviews that went beyond highlights and stats.
Her work with Bleacher Report’s “Take It There with Taylor Rooks” showcased her ability to sit down with some of the biggest names in sports and have open, insightful conversations on topics ranging from personal struggles to societal issues.
Signature Interviewing Style
What sets Taylor Rooks apart in the media world is her interviewing technique. Rather than sticking to surface-level sports questions, Rooks delves into:
- Personal stories
- Mental health
- Cultural identity
- Social justice
- Growth mindset
Athletes frequently open up to her because of her authenticity and respect for their stories. She’s not afraid to ask tough questions, but always does so with empathy and preparation.
For instance, in interviews with players like Ja Morant, Odell Beckham Jr., and Jayson Tatum, she explores not just their professional lives, but who they are as people. This humanizing approach has redefined what sports journalism can be in the digital age.
A Voice for Representation and Diversity
As a Black woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry, Taylor Rooks is a trailblazer. She consistently uses her platform to advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equal representation in sports media.
She’s spoken out about the challenges women of color face in journalism, from discrimination to underrepresentation. But instead of shrinking in the face of adversity, Rooks has used her visibility to elevate others, promote conversations about race and gender, and empower aspiring journalists.
Her presence on platforms like Bleacher Report, Amazon Prime Video, and NBA on TNT has opened the door for more intersectional narratives in sports coverage.
Key Career Highlights
1. Bleacher Report’s “Take It There”
This signature series features long-form interviews with some of the world’s most prominent athletes. It’s where Taylor Rooks’ unique interviewing skills truly shine.
2. Amazon Prime’s Thursday Night Football
In 2022, Rooks joined Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football broadcast team as a feature reporter and interviewer, further expanding her reach into NFL audiences.
3. NBA All-Star and Playoff Coverage
Rooks has become a staple in NBA coverage, frequently reporting on All-Star events, trade rumors, playoff matchups, and behind-the-scenes content.
4. NBA on TNT Appearances
Her work with Turner Sports has brought her to NBA audiences through special segments and studio analysis, often alongside legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley.
Social Media Influence
Taylor Rooks maintains a strong presence on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, where she connects with fans and shares insights from her interviews and life. With hundreds of thousands of followers across platforms, she serves as a media influencer who balances professionalism with approachability.
She’s also known for promoting Black excellence, supporting fellow creators, and highlighting social causes that matter to her audience. Her Twitter threads often spark deep discussions about sports, race, and media ethics.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many high-profile journalists, Rooks has faced scrutiny. Whether it’s navigating online trolls, defending her credibility, or being judged based on her appearance, she’s had to work harder than many of her male counterparts to be taken seriously.
Rooks has addressed these challenges head-on, advocating for fair treatment of women in media and encouraging a more inclusive sports journalism space. Her success has not only inspired younger journalists but also helped shift the industry’s culture.
Future Potential and Media Legacy
Taylor Rooks is still in the early phases of what promises to be a long and impactful career. Her ability to combine sports journalism with real-world conversations positions her as a leading voice not only in media but in cultural storytelling.
Whether she eventually expands into podcasting, film, production, or executive leadership, it’s clear that Rooks has the vision and influence to shape the future of how sports stories are told.
Final Thoughts: Taylor Rooks Is More Than a Journalist
Taylor Rooks is not just a sports reporter—she’s a storyteller, a changemaker, and a media innovator. Her thoughtful interviews, advocacy for diversity, and ability to connect with athletes on a human level have earned her the respect of fans, peers, and professionals alike.
As she continues to blaze trails in sports journalism, Taylor Rooks is proving that the future of media is inclusive, intelligent, and inspiring—and she’s at the forefront of that movement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Taylor Rooks?
Taylor Rooks is a sports journalist, interviewer, and media personality known for her in-depth conversations with top athletes and her work with Bleacher Report, Amazon Prime Video, and Turner Sports.
What is Taylor Rooks known for?
She is best known for her long-form interview series “Take It There” and her work on Amazon Prime’s NFL coverage. She is recognized for humanizing athletes and addressing social issues in sports.
Did Taylor Rooks play sports?
No, Taylor Rooks did not play sports professionally, but she comes from a sports family and studied broadcast journalism.
What is Taylor Rooks’ age?
Taylor Rooks was born on May 22, 1992, which makes her 33 years old as of 2025.
Is Taylor Rooks active on social media?
Yes, she is active on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where she shares updates, behind-the-scenes content, and social commentary.