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. Kime s 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.ICYMI | Why nearly every Scripps Bee finalist has a coach and why one stands above the rest ...read more read less