The World's Best Athletes Tell Her Everything At just 32 years old, Taylor Rooks might just be the most in-demand sideline reporter across the NBA and NFL. We tagged along with her to an Eagles game—and talked to friends Saquon Barkley, Jayson Tatum, and Jack Harlow—to find out her secret.

Taylor Rooks, the 32-year-old sports reporter, is a magnet on the sidelines of the Eagles-Commanders game at Lincoln Financial Field. Players, parents, and staff alike are drawn to her, eager to connect with the star journalist. Tonight, her exclusive interview with Eagles running back Saquon Barkley will air during Thursday Night Football.

Rooks has a unique ability to make athletes feel comfortable and open up in interviews. Her genuine curiosity and disarming nature have led to revealing conversations with stars like Vince Carter, Garrett Wilson, and Bam Adebayo. She's been dubbed the "Dr. Melfi for athletes," a comparison she wears with pride.

Rooks' journey began in Gwinnett County, Georgia, where sports were a way of life. Her father, Thomas Rooks, is a university football legend, and her great-uncle, Lou Brock, is in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Rooks ran track in high school but decided to pursue sports journalism after a humbling 400-meter race.

She started her career early, interviewing LeBron James at the 2012 NBA All-Star Game at just 19 years old. Since then, she's broken news on college athletes like Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brunson, and now challenges the sports journalism establishment as a leading voice of a new generation.

Rooks' success is built on her authenticity, work ethic, and the personal connections she forms with athletes. She's earned their respect and trust, leading to unique insights and candid moments in her interviews. Her ultimate goal is to become appointment viewing, inspiring young Black girls to follow in her footsteps.

"What I do in this space is super necessary," Rooks says. "Young Black girls need to look at me and say, ‘I look like this person. I talk like this person. I act like this person. I can be this person.’"

When asked if she'd trade her career to become a successful professional athlete, Rooks doesn't hesitate. "I feel very proud of what I do," she says. "And if somebody ever said that there’s something I can’t do, I would say, 'Watch the tape.'"

Rooks' impact on sports journalism is undeniable, and her influence continues to grow. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring journalists and a testament to the power of authenticity and hard work.