As Boise State gears up for its biggest game of the season, Idaho Today is bringing fans closer to the action with a special guest: NBC Sports sideline reporter Zora Stephenson, who joins KTVB’s Mellisa Paul and Hector Mendoza via Zoom to preview this Saturday’s marquee matchup between the Broncos and the Fighting Irish. Now in her fourth season covering Notre Dame Football, Stephenson has reported on the Olympics, the Big Ten, and even made history with the Milwaukee Bucks as the first woman to call TV play-by-play for the team.
Known for her passion for storytelling, she brings unique insight into the players, the rivalries, and the moments that matter.
Hosts Mellisa Paul and Hector Mendoza chatted with Stephenson about what to expect as the No. 21-ranked Irish (2–2) host the Boise State Broncos (3–1) under head coach Spencer Danielson. The Irish may be favored, but our Broncos have a history of bringing shock and awe to big-name programs.
The game, kicking off at 1:30 p.m. MT on October 4, marks the first-ever meeting between No. 21-ranked Notre Dame (2–2) and the rising-star Boise State Broncos (3–1) under head coach Spencer Danielson. The Fighting Irish may enter as the favorite, but with Boise State’s history of upsetting powerhouse programs, this contest promises fireworks on NBC.
Zora Stephenson: A Voice for the Big Stage
Now in her fourth season covering Notre Dame Football, Stephenson is no stranger to high-stakes moments. She joined NBC Sports in 2021, quickly becoming a trusted reporter on some of the world’s biggest stages. Viewers may recognize her from her coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics (basketball and gymnastics), the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, and the Big Ten Conference.
Before her national spotlight with NBC, Stephenson made history with the Milwaukee Bucks, serving as a sideline and digital reporter from 2019 to 2023. In April 2021, she became the first woman to handle television play-by-play duties for a Bucks game, later hosting the team’s 2021 NBA Championship parade. She’s also a play-by-play broadcaster for the New York Liberty in the WNBA.
Her path to broadcasting began after her time at Elon University, where she graduated in 2015 with a degree in media arts and entertainment and left her mark on the basketball court, setting a single-season record for three-point percentage. She started her career as a local news reporter in North Carolina and Denver, earning multiple Emmy Awards for her work.
Storytelling on the Sidelines
For Stephenson, sports broadcasting has always been about more than stats and scores. Her passion lies in storytelling — finding the human side of the game and connecting fans with the athletes who inspire them. That approach makes her one of NBC’s most dynamic voices and the perfect guide as Boise State takes the national stage this weekend.
Saturday’s Broadcast Team
NBC’s 35th season broadcasting Notre Dame Football features veteran play-by-play voice Dan Hicks, analyst Jason Garrett, and sideline reporter Zora Stephenson. Garrett, a former NFL quarterback and longtime Dallas Cowboys head coach, returns for his fourth consecutive season alongside Stephenson.
Together, the crew will bring fans every detail from Notre Dame Stadium when the Broncos take on the Irish in a clash that could redefine Boise State’s season.
Don’t miss the game live on NBC this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. MT.
