Former NBA player Derek Fisher finds his voice in L.A. sports radio
Derek Fisher has spent much of his life inside the pressure, passion and expectation that define Los Angeles sports. A five-time NBA champion with the Lakers, Fisher understands what it means to perform in a city where fans do not simply watch their teams — they live with them.
Now, Fisher is bringing that perspective to sports radio with D Fish & Decker, his new morning show on The New 97.1 FM, The FAN LA, alongside former professional baseball player Cody Decker. Together, the two bring different sports backgrounds, distinct points of view and a shared respect for the conversations that make Los Angeles one of the most dynamic sports cities in the country.
For Fisher, the move into radio is not a departure from the game, but an extension of a life spent leading, communicating and connecting through sports.
Credit: 97.1 The Fan LA
Why was this the right time for you to step into sports radio in L.A.?
Derek Fisher: Basketball gave me experiences that shaped me, but it also taught me how much I enjoy communicating, teaching and sharing perspective. At this point in my life, I have been fortunate to experience success, adversity, leadership, criticism and growth. I think those experiences allow me to bring a more complete perspective to the conversation. In a city like Los Angeles, where expectations are always high and every team has a passionate fan base, there is never a shortage of meaningful conversations. This opportunity felt less like starting something new and more like the next evolution of what I have already been doing.
What kind of conversation do you want to have with L.A. sports fans every morning?
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DF: I want it to feel authentic. Sports are important because they connect to real life. The lessons, the emotions, the challenges, the triumphs. I want fans to feel like they are part of a conversation that respects how much they care. Whether we’re talking about the Lakers, Dodgers, Rams, college sports or the bigger stories shaping the sports world, I want listeners to feel like they’re hearing honest perspectives and thoughtful discussion. We can disagree, debate and challenge each other, but hopefully people leave feeling like they gained something beyond just the final score. My goal is always to bring perspective, not just opinion.
Credit: 97.1 The Fan LA
Cody Decker comes from a baseball background and brings a different perspective. What makes this pairing work?
DF: The best teams are not built around people who think exactly the same. Cody and I come from different sports, experiences and paths, which creates opportunities for really interesting conversations. There is mutual respect, but there is also enough difference that we can challenge each other. Los Angeles is one of the few sports cities where a morning can move from a Dodgers conversation to a Lakers debate to a Myles Garrett blockbuster trade without missing a beat. I think listeners appreciate different perspectives because sports are rarely as simple as one right answer.
What do you want L.A. fans who’ve yet to tune in to know about D Fish & Decker?
DF: [That] they are getting the real version of us. We are going to have fun, challenge each other and talk about the things L.A. sports fans actually care about. My hope is that listeners feel like they are joining a conversation rather than simply listening to one. We want people to be able to call in, share their perspectives and be part of the show as it happens live on air. Whether we agree or disagree, authenticity is always going to be at the center of what we do.
The show airs weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. on The New 97.1 FM The Fan LA and is also available on the Audacy app. Catch it live or listen to past episodes on demand.