If you’ve ever yelled at your screen because of a commentator’s hot take—or felt like one analyst just gets it—you’re not alone.
Sports fans across the U.S. are now making their voices heard thanks to a new ranking that reveals who they love, who they trust, and who they just can’t stand.
The DailyMail+ Power List is out, and it’s all about the big personalities who talk us through the biggest games.
Whether it’s football, basketball, or sports news in general, fans had plenty to say.
Shaq Dominates as America’s Most Loved Sports Personality
At the top of the list is none other than Shaquille O’Neal.
The NBA legend turned analyst stole the show in every single category—trust, knowledge, likability—you name it.
After nearly 15 years on Inside the NBA, now airing on ESPN, fans clearly see Shaq as more than just a basketball great.
He’s fun, brutally honest, and makes sports commentary entertaining in a way few others can.
Charles Barkley Takes the Silver with His Straight-Talk Style
Shaq’s longtime co-host Charles Barkley isn’t far behind.
While his opinions may stir debate, fans respect how much he knows and how real he keeps it.
Both he and Shaq are celebrated not just for being ex-athletes, but for sounding like the fans themselves—authentic, unfiltered, and passionate.
Former Athletes Rule the Rankings
One trend is clear: fans trust those who’ve actually played the game.
Nine of the top 10 in the “most knowledgeable” category are former professional athletes.
Among them is Troy Aikman, a former NFL quarterback and ESPN host, who came in third.
Then there’s Michael Strahan, recently retired from Good Morning America, who claimed fourth place thanks to his charm and football savvy.
Right behind him is fellow ex-Cowboys QB Tony Romo, who rounds out the top five.
Erin Andrews Stands Out as the Top-Ranked Woman
Coming in sixth overall is Erin Andrews, a Fox Sports mainstay.
She was especially popular when it came to who fans would actually want to hang out with—placing just behind Shaq and Barkley in the “party invite” category.
Skip Bayless Lands at the Bottom with Record-Low Scores
It wasn’t all praise, though. Skip Bayless had a rough showing, landing at or near the bottom in nearly every category.
Fans ranked him as the least truthful, least likeable, and least desirable guest to bring to any party.
His recent controversies—including his departure from Fox Sports and allegations in a lawsuit—likely didn’t help.
Former colleagues weren’t shy about calling him out either, suggesting that his on-air persona is more reality than performance.
Other Notable Lows and Surprising Rankings
Another name near the bottom is Joy Taylor, who was also mentioned in the same lawsuit involving Bayless.
Though she denies the claims, she placed third from last overall and dead last in perceived knowledge.
Meanwhile, Stephen A. Smith, a longtime ESPN fixture, may want to think twice about running for office—he was ranked the least fun and among the most biased analysts in the game.
Even Tom Brady, despite being one of the most successful quarterbacks ever, struggled to break into the top five.
Fans admire his skills, sure, but question whether he can really keep things unbiased now that he’s moved into commentary.
Shannon Sharpe and Pat McAfee Round Out the Top 10
Finishing strong, Shannon Sharpe took ninth place—even after parting ways with ESPN following a lawsuit that has since been settled.
His podcasts, Club Shay Shay and Nightcap, still keep him in the public eye.
Pat McAfee, the former punter-turned-ESPN personality, closed out the top ten.
With a massive contract and a loyal following, his energetic style seems to resonate with many.
More Power Lists Are on the Way
This is just the beginning. The DailyMail+ Power List will soon highlight top names in morning TV, politics, fashion, and more.
But for now, sports fans have spoken—and they’ve made it crystal clear who’s really winning the game in the commentary box.