By admin 
Mina Kimes, ESPN senior writer and Emmy Award-winning analyst, sat down with Scripps News to talk about how her experience as a school spelling bee competitor prepared her for hosting the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Read more One hurt in apartment fire Monday near Hayden and Indian School roads in Scottsdale
Kimes said there are some similarities between the spelling bee contestants and the professional athletes she covers on a regular basis.
“I thought these were the coolest kids on earth, and just to be a part of their journey, to celebrate them, to bring their stories to life for viewers, that’s what I’m looking forward to the most,” said Kimes.
Read more US military says it carried out ‘self-defense’ strikes in Iran, including missile launch sites
ICYMI | Why nearly every Scripps Bee finalist has a coach — and why one stands above the rest
Read more Missionaries work to open Gilbert’s first heat relief and respite center of the summer