When ESPN opened for business in 1979, its ongoing survival was much less than a sure thing. Future New York Times reporter Bill Pennington was one of four reporters who covered its launch, but thought at the time that “This is the stupidest thing I've ever heard.”
ESPN's early existence was very “start-up.” A tiny headquarters the size of a living room, rent of $100/month, and desks made from plywood that were nailed to old doors. At one point founder Bill Rasmussen took out a $9,400 advance on his Visa to make payroll and pay bills.
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