Inside The Game: Alexis Ayala Brings Authenticity, Passion and “Big Lexi” Energy to the Broadcast Booth
- Jonathan Turner
- 11 hours ago
- 4 min read
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On Todays show on Inside The Game, we welcome Alexis Ayala — a dynamic voice in sports broadcasting who brings insight into player development, media, and the evolving sports culture across the country.
Versatile, conversational, and authentic.
Those are the three words Ayala uses to describe herself. But as she quickly points out, her résumé only tells part of the story.
“My best selling point comes from meeting me in person,” Ayala said. “I wouldn’t be able to fit my personality into a small box.”
And that personality is exactly what makes her stand out.
From the Court to the Camera
Ayala’s love for basketball runs deep.
A former collegiate player, she spent two years at Lawrence Technological University before nearly walking on at Michigan State University, where she ultimately played two additional seasons. Though her playing days are over, she jokes that she has checked her eligibility more than once — just in case.
While the dream of being drafted into the WNBA became unlikely, her love for the game never faded. Instead of stepping away, she leaned in.
“If I couldn’t play anymore, I still wanted to be around the game,” Ayala shared.
That mindset led her to transfer to Michigan State and major in broadcasting, positioning herself for a future in sports media.
Finding Her Voice During Uncertainty
During the COVID-19 lockdown, when sports broadcasting looked drastically different, Ayala capitalized on every opportunity she could find. She began calling games solo from a studio, developing confidence and discovering her unique voice behind the microphone.
It was during this time that “Big Lexi” was fully born.
Contrary to what many assume, the persona didn’t originate from a game-winning shot or viral sports moment. It actually stemmed from a viral Vine video that followed her throughout high school and college.
“I always introduce myself as Big Lexi when given the opportunity,” Ayala explained.
The name stuck — and so did the energy.
Why Broadcasting?
For Ayala, broadcasting offers something journalism alone does not: emotional expression.
“The thing that separates broadcasting and journalism is the ability to wear your heart on your sleeve,” she said.
While she loved journaling and writing when she was younger, nothing compares to the feeling of being on-air when a player hits a huge shot in a big moment.
Broadcasting allows her to be openly passionate about the game she loves.
Inspired by Fearless Women
Ayala draws inspiration from bold, authentic on-air talents like Jemele Hill and Michelle Beadle — personalities who remained unapologetically themselves while producing impactful content.
“I always loved Michelle Beadle and Jemele Hill,” Ayala emphasized. “They were going to be themselves no matter what.”
She also credits her mentor, Chicago Sky broadcaster Meghan McKeown, as one of the most influential figures in her career.
“I can’t forget my mentor, Meghan McKeown — she’s been absolutely amazing, as well.”
Watching these women pivot through adversity and continue finding success reinforced an important lesson: authenticity wins in the long run.
Embracing Being “Different”
Ayala spoke candidly about being perceived as “different.”
Ironically, she believes the key to standing out is simply being yourself — so fully that you stop comparing.
At some point, she stopped worrying about the “pack” altogether.
“Sometimes you’re so indulged in being yourself that you literally cannot see anyone else,” she explained.
That self-assurance didn’t happen overnight. It came through experience — and mistakes.
Advice for Young Broadcasters
Ayala encourages aspiring journalists and broadcasters to start in smaller markets where they can afford to make mistakes.
“The most confident and intelligent people mess up every day,” she said. “Be comfortable with messing up and just building upon that mess up.”
She believes it’s far better to learn lessons on a smaller stage than under the brightest lights.
“I advise people always to sometimes forget time is even real,” Ayala stated passionately. “Staying in your own lane and allowing things to happen when they happen is the best course of action. Also, don’t be afraid to mess up — preferably in smaller markets — but mess up early.”
And perhaps her most direct advice?
“No matter what, say ‘Yes’ to everything. Tons of people in the world shut themselves out from so many opportunities because of fear. Be fearless and get what you’re worth.”
More Than a Persona
“Big Lexi” may be the introduction — but Alexis Ayala is the substance.
A former athlete turned broadcaster, she represents the evolving sports culture: passionate, adaptable, fearless, and unapologetically authentic.
Though her playing days are behind her, her presence in the game is stronger than ever.
And if you listen closely, you can still hear the joy in her voice — the same joy she felt on the court — now amplified through the microphone.
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