Between The Lines

Wednesday, July 1, 2026: A new era of Cortland volleyball has begun. On Tuesday, Kristin Baker was officially announced as the new head coach of the Red Dragons, and she joins BTL to talk about taking over the program and her Central New York roots both as a player and a coach. Photo: NANCY L. FORD PHOTORGRAPHY/Hamilton College

Friday, June 26, 2026: Fresh off agreeing to a two-way NBA contract with the Los Angeles Lakers following the 2026 NBA Draft, former Cornell standout AK Okereke joins Between the Lines. Okereke’s remarkable rise from walk-on at Cornell to All-Ivy League performer to SEC starter at Vanderbilt has now put him on the doorstep of the NBA with one of basketball’s most iconic franchises. He reflects on the moment he got the call, the journey through Ithaca and Nashville, and what it means to take the next step toward a professional career with the Lakers organization. Photo: Eakin Howard/Cornell Athletics

Friday, June 26, 2026: ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changers recognizes individuals throughout the Finger Lakes who have made an impact in our sports community. For nearly two decades, Todd Salls has been the steady hand behind Union Springs athletics. As athletic director, he's spent countless hours working behind the scenes to ensure student-athletes have the opportunity to compete, grow, and represent their school with pride. His impact extends far beyond schedules, buses, and game-day logistics. Todd has helped shape the culture of Union Springs athletics, emphasizing sportsmanship, community service, and creating opportunities for students both on and off the field. From navigating the challenges facing small-school athletics to fostering traditions that connect athletes with the community, his influence can be felt throughout the district. As he prepares for retirement, Todd leaves behind a legacy built on service, dedication, and a commitment to putting students first. Click here to nominate an ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changer.

Thursday, June 25, 2026: The AL East’s best head to Fenway to take on its biggest disappointment as the Yankees open a four-game set against the Red Sox. Boston entered the season with playoff expectations, but a 32-46 start has them sitting at the bottom of the American League instead. Matt McCarthy of 98.5 The Sports Hub joins the show to preview the rivalry series and break down what’s gone wrong for the Sox in 2026 - and whether there’s any way out of it.

Wednesday, June 24, 2026: One week after hearing her name called 10th overall in the 2026 PWHL Draft, former Cornell captain Grace Dwyer joins Between the Lines. Dwyer became the second straight Big Red player selected in the first round and was one of a program-record six Cornellians drafted this year. She looks back on draft night, discusses the opportunity to begin her professional career with the Boston Fleet, and reflects on how Cornell has developed into one of the premier pipelines to the PWHL and international hockey. Photo: Cornell Athletics/John O' Donnell

Wednesday, June 17, 2026: The 3rd Annual First Responder Charity Softball Tournament returns to Ithaca College on July 26, bringing together local law enforcement agencies for a day of competition, community, and a great cause. Ithaca College Chief of Public Safety Scott Garin joins the show to discuss the tournament, its continued growth, and its support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Thursday, June 11, 2026: ESPN Ithaca's Community Gamechangers recognizes individuals throughout the Finger Lakes who have made an impact in our sports community. For students at Newfield, Brandon Steinorth is much more than a basketball coach or teacher. He's someone who creates an environment where students feel valued, engaged, and excited to be part of their school community. His impact extends far beyond the classroom and basketball court. Brandon helps with fundraising events, school activities, halftime entertainment, and Newfield Now, the student-run news program that gives students opportunities to build confidence and develop real-world skills. Whether he's teaching, coaching, mentoring, or volunteering, Brandon is committed to making students feel supported and connected. As his nomination says: "He makes people feel valued. He makes students want to show up. He makes the community better." Click here to nominate an ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changer.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026: The Knicks and Spurs are putting on a show in the NBA Finals, and with New York still ahead 2-1, BTL brings in Cornell men's basketball head coach Jon Jaques for a coach's-eye view of the series. Plus, Jaques discusses Cornell's seven newcomers and how the latest additions could shape the Big Red's 2026-27 campaign. Photo: Cornell University Athletics

Tuesday, June 2, 2026: The NBA Finals tip off Wednesday night in San Antonio as the Spurs host the Knicks in Game 1. ESPN Radio’s Marc Kestecher, the play-by-play voice of the NBA on ESPN Radio, joins the show to preview the matchup, discuss what a championship would mean for Jalen Brunson and the Knicks, and explain how Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs have become one of the league’s elite teams despite their youth.

Monday, June 1, 2026: Better late than never? More like the earlier the better! It's a Wagner Valley Brewing Tasting Tuesday on a Monday! Kevin Falkenberg joins Nick Karski in-studio as the guys sample Dockside Vienna Lager, Daybreak Pilsner and Cross-Section IPA. Check out the latest beer and happenings at WagnerBrewing.com.

Tuesday, May 19, 2026: ESPN Ithaca's Community Gamechangers recognizes individuals throughout the Finger Lakes who have made an impact in our sports community. Petula McBean has been a steady and powerful presence in the Ithaca City School District for years, helping create the kind of school community where students, families, and athletes feel supported. Whether she’s working athletic events, welcoming fans, helping officials, or making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, Petula brings pride, professionalism, and care to every event she’s part of. Her impact stretches far beyond game nights. From helping organize fan buses so students can travel together and support Ithaca teams at sectional games, to assisting with school spirit events and pep rallies, Petula has consistently put students first and helped strengthen the sense of community throughout Ithaca athletics. Click here to nominate an ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changer.

Thursday, May 7, 2026: After falling to Princeton in the Ivy League Tournament championship, Cornell men’s lacrosse head coach Connor Buczek joined the media on Thursday to reflect on the Big Red’s lessons from the Ivy title game, and the adjustments needed as the NCAA Tournament begins. Now entering the postseason as the defending national champions, Cornell turns the page quickly to a first-round showdown with Johns Hopkins on Saturday night in Ithaca. Photo: Cornell University Athletics 

Thursday, May 7, 2026: Last year, Cornell men’s lacrosse climbed to the top of the sport and captured a national championship for the first time in nearly five decades. As the Big Red prepare to defend that title, a new book is hitting shelves next week that takes you inside that unforgettable run. The Long Red Line: Cornell Lacrosse and the Forty-Eight-Year Quest for Glory tells the story of Cornell’s 2025 season and the 48-year chase that led to Memorial Day glory. Author Christian Swezey joins the show to bring those moments, voices, and turning points back to life. Learn more or purchase a copy of the book here.

Thursday, May 7, 2026: Ithaca College has officially ushered in a new era of women’s basketball with the hiring of Erin Hughes as the program’s next head coach. Hughes arrives after a successful run as an assistant at Trinity College, where she helped guide the Bantams to a 35-18 record and an NCAA Tournament appearance, and previously played a key role in multiple NCAA runs at Washington & Lee. A former WBCA All-American and nationally recognized coach, Hughes joins Between the Lines to talk about her vision for Ithaca women’s basketball and the road ahead on South Hill. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics 

Monday, June 1, 2026: Tasting Tuesday came a day early this week! Kevin Falkenberg from Wagner Valley Brewing Company joined Nick Karski in studio as the guys sampled Dockside Vienna Lager, Daybreak Pilsner, and Cross-Section IPA while discussing the latest happenings at the brewery. Check out the latest beer and happenings at WagnerBrewing.com.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026: SUNY Cortland women’s lacrosse is SUNYAC champions for the second time in three seasons after a 9-4 win over Oswego. Tournament MVP Ashley Melillo powered the run with a standout semifinal and title game, finishing with 5 goals, 4 assists, 5 caused turnovers, and 6 ground balls. Melillo joins Between the Lines to reflect on the title run, her All-SUNYAC season, and preview Cortland’s NCAA matchup with No. 19 Colby. Photo: EDL Photography/SUNY Cortland Athletics

Monday, May 4, 2026: For the first time ever, NASCAR roars into Watkins Glen International earlier than ever before, bringing a unique twist to one of the sport’s most iconic road courses. MRN’s Alex Hayden joins BTL to break down how the uncharacteristically early date could impact teams, sizes up the contenders for Sunday’s Go Bowling at The Glen, and dives into what continues to make The Glen a can’t-miss stop on the NASCAR calendar year after year.

Monday, May 4, 2026: NASCAR returns to Watkins Glen International this weekend, as the iconic road course takes center stage in the Cup Series schedule. Sunday’s Go Bowling at The Glen headlines a full slate of racing, and track President Dawn Burlew joins the show to discuss what fans can expect to see at the legendary track this weekend. Photo: Watkins Glen International

Friday, May 1, 2026: The road to the Triple Crown begins this weekend at Churchill Downs as the action kicks off tonight with the Kentucky Oaks, followed by Saturday’s main event, the Kentucky Derby. Handicapper Andrew Champagne joins us to break down the Oaks, Saturday’s big Derby Day undercard, and the Run for the Roses itself. Follow him on Twitter/X, @AndrewChampagne.

Friday, May 1, 2026: One of the biggest weekends in the Finger Lakes is just around the corner as NASCAR returns to Watkins Glen International for a full slate of racing action. NASCAR legend and Chemung native Geoff Bodine joins Between the Lines to reflect on his career, the evolution of the sport, and to preview his upcoming Rockavaka bottle signing in Horseheads on Saturday, May 9 at GCP Discount Liquor and Wines.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026: It's been business as usual for Cortland baseball in the SUNYAC. The Red Dragons clinched top spot in the conference and home-field advantage in the tournament following Tuesday's 4-3 extra innings win over Oswego. The Red Dragons' top hitter this year is sophomore second baseman Talon Elkins, and he joins the show to look back at his stellar performances at the plate and the season as a whole and look ahead to this weekend's final regular season series at Oneonta. Photo: EDL Photography/SUNY Cortland Athletics

Tuesday, April 21, 2026: Make it four straight wins for No. 6 Cornell men’s lacrosse, as the Big Red capped their road slate with a 15-9 victory at Dartmouth on Saturday. Matt Tully has been outstanding in goal and joins BTL to break down the team’s recent surge, reflect on his development in the cage over the past few seasons, and preview a massive regular-season finale against Harvard this Saturday. Photo: Cornell Athletics

Thursday, April 16, 2026: Riding a huge week, Cornell men’s lacrosse head coach Connor Buczek met with the media Wednesday after back-to-back wins. The Big Red locked down the nation’s top scoring offense in a 9-7 win over Duke, then turned around and powered past High Point 17-9. Buczek breaks down the defensive effort, highlights Matt Tully’s standout play in goal and Brian Luzzi’s impact on offense, and looks ahead to Saturday’s Ivy League showdown at Dartmouth. Photo: Cornell Athletics

Wednesday, April 15, 2026: Cortland men’s lacrosse is on a tear - four straight wins to open SUNYAC play, outscoring conference opponents 98-19. Sean Kavanagh has been at the center of it all, tallying 68 points on 34 goals and 34 assists. He joins BTL to break down the Red Dragons’ hot start in the conference and preview a massive Wednesday night showdown at No. 18 Ithaca College.  Photo: EDL Photography/SUNY Cortland Athletics

Thursday, April 9, 2026: Cornell men’s lacrosse rolled past Penn 16-8 last week, earning its first win at Franklin Field since 2018. Head coach Connor Buczek looks back on the statement victory, previews a marquee showdown with Duke on Long Island, and discusses how the Big Red will handle a quick turnaround with High Point coming to Ithaca on Monday. Photo: Cornell Athletics

Thursday, April 9, 2026: Ithaca College men’s lacrosse is rolling, winners of three straight including a statement 9-8 win over No. 6 RIT. Goalie Andrew Minard made 13 saves and came up clutch in a scoreless fourth quarter for the Bombers, and joins the show to break down the defensive effort, his mindset in net during tight games, and how Ithaca is finding its stride. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics

Tuesday, April 7, 2026: It’s the first Tuesday of April, which means it’s time to embrace the spring spirit - and some fresh brews from Wagner Valley Brewing Company. Kevin Falkenberg joins Nick Karski in studio as they sample the return of Seneca Screamer Cream Ale, Hop Tropic IPA, and Golden Hour Kölsch. Check out the latest beer and happenings at WagnerBrewing.com.

Monday, April 6, 2026: Racing returns to Watkins Glen International this weekend as the iconic road course hosts Opening Day on Saturday, giving fans from across the Finger Lakes the chance to drive the track. Track President Dawn Burlew joins the show to talk about Opening Weekend and the build-up to May’s NASCAR weekend, highlighted by the Go Bowling at The Glen. Photo: Watkins Glen International

Friday, April 3, 2026: Cornell men’s lacrosse head coach Connor Buczek held his weekly media availability on Wednesday following last Saturday's 13-12 loss to Yale. It marked the Big Red's first Ivy League loss since the 2024 season. Buczek looks back on the game, highlights the play of Michael Melkonian at faceoff, and preview's this weekend's matchup against Penn. Photo: Cornell Athletics

Thursday, April 2, 2026: Ithaca College baseball is red hot, winners of three straight and seven of their last nine. First baseman Ethan Fantel opened the season with a 17-game hitting streak and joins the show to talk about the team’s offensive surge, his approach at the plate, and his team-leading numbers through the first half of the season. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics

Thursday, April 2, 2026: One week into the season, the Miami Marlins are tied for the best record in baseball at 5-1 alongside the Yankees and Brewers. With a three-game series against New York on deck, Marlins TV voice Kyle Sielaff joins the show to break down what’s clicking offensively, Sandy Alcantara’s dominant start to the year, and what he’s most eager to learn about this team in a big early-season test. Photo via Marlins.com

Monday, March 30, 2026: ESPN Ithaca's Community Gamechangers recognizes individuals throughout the Finger Lakes who have made an impact in our sports community. Chris Stevens is a vital part of the Southern Cayuga school community, making a difference in countless ways behind the scenes. While his role is in maintenance, his impact reaches far beyond - helping ensure student-athletes have the opportunity to compete and succeed. From preparing facilities to driving buses for away games, Chris is always ready to step in wherever he’s needed. He supports athletics by keeping the scorebook, running the clock, and helping events run smoothly, all while handling the day-to-day challenges that keep the school operating. Selfless, reliable, and always willing to help, Chris is someone the entire district depends on. His dedication to students, staff, and the athletic community makes a lasting impact across Southern Cayuga. Click here to nominate someone you believe should be recognized as ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changer.

Thursday, March 26, 2026: Dan Raymond is calling it a career after 26 seasons leading Ithaca College women’s basketball, closing the book on one of the most successful eras in program history. Raymond joins the show to discuss why now felt like the right time to step away, reflect on some of his favorite moments over the years, and share what kept him at Ithaca for more than two decades. He also looks ahead to retirement - and what he’s most excited about in this next chapter. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics

Wednesday, March 25, 2026: The NCAA Tournament gets underway this week, and the Big Red open with a tough test on the road, traveling to Loveland, Colorado to take on No. 4 and second-seeded Denver. Head coach Casey Jones joins his weekly Wednesday segment to preview the matchup and reflect on last Friday’s ECAC semifinal loss to Princeton. Photo: DJ Jacobi / Cornell Sports

Wednesday, March 18, 2026: After taking two of three from Harvard in the ECAC Quarterfinals at Lynah Rink, Cornell men’s hockey now turns its attention to championship weekend in Lake Placid. The Big Red face Princeton in Friday’s ECAC Semifinal. Head coach Casey Jones joins us for his weekly Wednesday visit from Lake Placid to look back on the series win over the Crimson, discuss the team’s depth at this stage of the season, and preview a strong Princeton squad led by former Cornell associate head coach Ben Syer. Photo: DJ Jacobi / Cornell Sports

Wednesday, March 18, 2026: ESPN Ithaca's Community Gamechangers recognizes individuals throughout the Finger Lakes who have made an impact in our sports community. For more than four decades, Cathy Haight has been a cornerstone of IAC athletics. She has coached at Groton, Odessa-Montour, and Lansing, eventually becoming the Athletic Director at Southern Cayuga before taking the helm as president of the IAC. Cathy founded the Lansing High School girls soccer program and led the Bobcats for 14 seasons, building a culture of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. Today, as IAC president, she continues to support athletes and coaches across the conference, helping them reach their full potential both on and off the field. Beyond coaching, Cathy's leadership, commitment, and vision have left a lasting mark on the region’s sports community, inspiring countless athletes, students and coaches along the way. Click here to nominate someone you believe should be recognized as ESPN Ithaca's Community Game Changer.

Friday, March 13, 2026: Cornell men’s basketball is two wins away from its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 16 years. The last time the Big Red reached the national tournament, head coach Jon Jaques was part of the Cornell team that advanced to the Sweet 16. He joins Ryan Gineo ahead of Saturday’s Ivy Madness semifinal against Yale to preview the matchup and discuss what’s been fueling the Big Red’s recent success. Photo: Cornell University Athletics

Friday, March 13, 2026: Ivy Madness is here. Cornell University hosts both the men’s and women’s tournaments in Ithaca starting Friday. Westwood One’s Ryan Radtke joins Between the Lines to preview the action, break down top-seeded Princeton’s dominance in the women’s bracket, weigh the home-court advantage for the Cornell men, and explain why the Ivy League is always dangerous come March.

Thursday, March 12, 2026: Ivy Madness in Ithaca is just one day away, and expectations are high for the top-seeded and nationally ranked Princeton Tigers. Jon Mozes, the play-by-play voice of the Tigers, previews what fans can expect when Princeton takes the floor and discuss what’s made the Tigers the team to beat in the Ancient Eight heading into the tournament.

Thursday, March 12, 2026: After a heartbreaker in double overtime, Ithaca College women’s lacrosse fell 15-14 to Scranton, snapping their undefeated start. Leigh Naturale led the charge with six points - three goals and three assists - keeping the Bombers’ high-powered offense on display. Leigh joins the show to reflect on the team’s hot start, their offensive identity, and preview Saturday’s huge Liberty League opener at RIT. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics

Wednesday, March 11, 2026: The Cortland women's lacrosse team improved to 2-2 following Tuesday's win over Mount Union. Emma Dempsey, who scored her team-leading 10th goal of the season, joins BTL to reflect on the victory, discuss her strong offensive start to her senior campaign, and preview this weekend's key non-conference matchup against No. 20 St. John Fisher. Photo: EDL Photography/SUNY Cortland Athletics

Wednesday, March 11, 2026: The ECAC playoffs are here, and it promises to be a huge weekend as Cornell hosts Harvard in a best-of-three quarterfinal series. Head Coach Casey Jones joins the show to reflect on the regular season, discuss Caton Ryan’s play, update Luke Devlin’s status, and preview the matchup against their rival. Photo: DJ Jacobi / Cornell Sports

Thursday, March 5, 2026: The Ithaca College baseball season is underway, and the Bombers opened the year in a high-scoring battle, falling 12–11 at Scranton on Wednesday. Head coach David Valesente joins the show to break down the season opener, share his early outlook for the team, and discuss what has made Liberty League Pitcher of the Year Jack Picozzi even tougher to face this season. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics

Thursday, March 5, 2026: Cornell men’s lacrosse head coach Connor Buczek held his weekly media availability on Wednesday following Saturday’s 8-7 loss to No. 3 Richmond. Buczek reflected on the one-goal defeat, discussed the team’s struggles at the faceoff X, provided an update on Rowyn Nurry, and previewed this weekend’s matchup at Penn State against Jeff Tambroni’s Nittany Lions. Photo: Cornell Athletics

Wednesday, March 4, 2026: Beginning next Monday, the EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup is back - a six-week competition that turns workouts into real environmental impact. Student-athletes from Cornell and Ithaca College will go head-to-head, converting exercise into beach and waterway cleanups ahead of Earth Day. EcoAthletes founder Lew Blaustein joins the show to explain how it works and how anyone can get involved. To learn more about EcoAthletes or to sign up and compete, visit EcoAthletes.org.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026: Cortland women’s basketball is headed to the NCAA tournament. The Red Dragons earned an at-large berth after a narrow, four-point loss to New Paltz in the SUNYAC championship game. Junior Forward Joleen Lusk joins the show to reflect on the season, discuss what’s been going right for C-State, and preview the Red Dragons’ path toward the Sweet 16. Photo: EDL Photography/SUNY Cortland Athletics

Tuesday, March 3, 2026: It's the first Tuesday in March which means it's another Wagner Valley Brewing Tasting Tuesday! Head brewer Jade Galligan joins the show to sample fresh batches of Cross-Section IPA, Dockside Vienna Lager and Sled Dog Doppelbock. Jade also shares what's in store for new releases this month. Check out the latest beer and happenings at WagnerBrewing.com.

Tuesday, March 3, 2026: Last Friday, Cornell basketball’s Jake Fiegen hit the game-winning three-pointer to lift the Big Red to a 72-69 victory over Yale. With Saturday’s win against Brown, Cornell has clinched the fourth and final spot in Ivy Madness, which comes to Ithaca for the first time next week. Fiegen joins the show to reflect on his heroics, discuss what’s been going right for the team, and preview the final regular-season game at Dartmouth on Saturday. Photo: Ryan Griffith/Cornell University Athletics

Friday, February 27, 2026: Schoellkopf Field will host a top-five showdown on Saturday as No. 5 Cornell Big Red men's lacrosse takes on the No. 3 Richmond Spiders in a rematch of two instant classics from last season, including an NCAA tournament battle. Cornell play-by-play broadcaster Christian De Guzman joins the show to preview the matchup, discuss what’s been working for the Big Red through three games, and break down what makes the Spiders such a dangerous team this season.

Friday, February 27, 2026: The Ithaca College men's wrestling team returns to postseason action this weekend, hosting the NCAA Division III Region II Wrestling Championships inside Glazer Arena. With national qualification on the line and the Bombers aiming to build on four straight runner-up regional finishes, Head Coach Marty Nichols joins the show to preview the tournament, discuss the team’s momentum heading into the postseason, highlight key wrestlers to watch, and explain what it will take for Ithaca to send a full lineup to nationals. Photo: Ithaca College Athletics