ESPN’s Inside the NBA segment took a subtle jab at Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini’s photo scandal. The segment featured a boat-themed illustration following the Boston Celtics’ loss, depicting the duo in a Titanic-style pose. This bold move comes amid renewed attention on the 2020 controversy, which comes after photos of the duo were recently captured at Ambiente in Sedona, Arizona.
ESPN Inside the NBA mocks Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini
Inside the NBA showcased its famous “Gone Fishing” graphics in light of the Boston Celtics losing to the Philadelphia 76ers. The picture featured famous Boston fans standing at a distance, with Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel standing at the corner, performing the Titanic pose. This graphic immediately went viral and drew indirect attention to the scandal controversy, which was recently addressed by Vrabel. It is to be noted that Russini was previously an employee of ESPN, having worked for several years before moving to The Athletic, from where she resigned recently.
Fans took to social media to share their reactions to ESPN’s bold move. A user wrote, “This is Diabolical and I’m here for it.” Another user said, “Dude The Name of The ship Heimlich.” A third one added, “Awww that ain’t not right.” Other reactions included, “ESPN didn’t have to go this hard with the random duo on the boat but I’m so glad they did. Peak silliness.”
Last month, Vrabel addressed the matter surrounding the fresh rounds of photos of him and Russini at a luxurious hotel. He revealed that he didn’t address the media earlier because he first wanted to speak with his players. The coach mentioned that he also didn’t want his personal matter to take the limelight away from the team and the rookies on the weekend.
In addition, he clarified that the circulating photos are misinterpreted and don’t mean anything. He elaborated, “These photos show a completely innocent interaction, and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response.”
Originally reported by Shazmeen Navrange on Mandatory.
