
Mark Medina is a veteran NBA reporter with over 15 years of experience covering the league’s biggest moments and personalities. Currently contributing to EssentiallySports, Medina’s career arc features in-depth coverage across major media outlets, including stints as a Lakers blogger at The Los Angeles Times (2010-12), Lakers beat writer for the LA Daily News (2012-17), and Warriors beat writer with the Bay Area News Group (2017-19). From 2019 to 2021, he extended his reach, covering the entire NBA with USA Today, before joining NBA.com as a national reporter through 2023. Medina’s reporting is shaped by a courtside presence at countless games, playoff runs, and Finals, providing readers with insider perspectives and player insights. He is a regular voice on CBSLA, Fox Sports Radio, and Spectrum SportsNet, sharing analysis and breaking stories. Throughout the years, Medina remains a trusted source for basketball fans navigating the fast-paced world of the NBA.
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Nikola Jokic’s Knee Rehab: Medical Experts Explain 3-Time MVP’s Comeback From Hyperextension (Exclusive)
Medical experts talk about Nikola Jokic's comeback from injury and his rehab in this Exclusive with EssentiallySports.

“These ‘Uncs’ Can Still Hoop”: John Collins Talks Kawhi Leonard, James Harden’s All-Star Bids and Clippers Future (Exclusive)
LA Clippers forward John Collins spoke to EssentiallySports about the team's incredible turnaround and the impact of stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.

LeBron James Addresses Jeanie Buss Partnership After Explosive Reports on Lakers Leadership Rift
Mark Medina of EssentiallySports captures LeBron James speaking about how the last few days have panned out within the Lakers camp.

“He’s Going to Hit Tough Ones”: ROTY Contender Kon Knueppel on Guarding Luka Doncic, Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s Advice and Hornets’ Season (Exclusive)
Hornets rookie and Duke alum Kon Knueppel spoke with EssentiallySports about his first NBA season, Charlotte’s progress, and more.

“There’s a Different Energy in LA”: Brandon Ingram on Facing Lakers, All-Star Bid, and Raptors’ Playoff Chances (Exclusive)
Raptors star Brandon Ingram spoke to EssentiallySports about Toronto's season so far and how it feels like going up against the Lakers, and more.

“We Want You to be You”: Wizards’ GM Will Dawkins on Acquiring Trae Young, Progression of Young Players and Season so far (Exclusive)
In an exclusive interview, Wizards GM Will Dawkins talks Trae Young’s rehab, trade deadline plans, and Washington’s long-term rebuild vision.

Bilal Coulibaly Dishes on Trae Young Trade, Wizards’ Season and More (Exclusive)
Wizards guard Bilal Coulibaly opened up to EssentiallySports about the Trae Young trade and his comeback from injuries, among other things.

“He’d Have His Own Rules”: Wizards’ Alex Sarr on Guarding Trae Young, Team’s Outlook, 2026 All-Star Case and More (Exclusive)
Washington's star forward, Alex Sarr, spoke to EssentiallySports about his growth as a player and the Wizards' season in general.

CJ McCollum Speaks About Atlanta Hawks Trade and Playoff Push (Exclusive)
CJ McCollum opened up to EssentiallySports about the sudden trade to Atlanta and how he's settled on a young team.

Collin Sexton Bats for Kon Knueppel’s Rookie of the Year Case, Praises LaMelo Ball’s Attitude and More (Exclusive)
Hornets star Collin Sexton opens up to EssentiallySports about the team dynamics and how the season has been so far in Charlotte.

Bucks’ Ryan Rollins Opens Up on Steph Curry Jersey Swap, Giannis Loyalty, and MIP Race (Exclusive)
Ryan Rollins, Milwaukee's breakout star, talks about the Bucks, his relationship with Giannis and much more in the exclusive chat with EssentiallySports.

Lakers’ Marcus Smart Speaks Candidly on Playing With LeBron & Luka, Defensive Struggles and More
Mark Medina of EssentiallySports exclusively speaks with Marcus Smart about teaming up with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, and planning in LA.
