John Brenkus, former ESPN host who created ‘Sport Science,’ dead at 54

John Brenkus, a former ESPN host behind the show “Sport Science,” has died.

He was 54.

A social-media statement said Brenkus “had been battling depression.”

“John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025,” reads the statement, which was shared Sunday night on Brenkus’ X account.

Brenkus was the creator of “Sport Science,” which examined the traits, physics and natural phenomena that made sports function and allowed high-performance athletes to be elite.

The show premiered on Fox Sports Net in 2007 before moving to ESPN.

ESPN aired “Sport Science” as a segment on its programming, using science to explain topics such as Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed catch, Tyreek Hill’s speed, Anthony Edwards’ athleticism and Victor Wembanyama’s size.

“Sport Science” won six Sp