CJ Papa

New York Islanders Television Host

CJ Papa joined MSG Networks in 2008 and currently serves as host of the NY Islanders telecasts on MSG Plus, providing analysis and commentary, along with player interviews during pre and post game shows and intermission reports.

Prior to joining MSG, Papa served as the longtime sports anchor and sports director for the WLNY-TV 10/55 nightly newscast from 1995 to 2008. Additionally, from 2005-2008, Papa worked for the Islanders as in-arena game-night host at Nassau Coliseum, where he would provide reports between periods for attendees.

Before working as a nightly sports anchor, Papa was a producer at Court TV. He produced a daily news program during the OJ Simpson murder trial and served as a line producer for the verdict. Papa's first job in television was at "New York Sports Nightly," where he served as a font coordinator, and had his first anchor opportunity on Sportschannel America's news program "Sports Nightly."

During Papa's time at WLNY-TV 10/55, he received four "Outstanding Sportscast" awards from the New York State Broadcasters Association and most recently was awarded the "Outstanding Sportscast" award for his reporting on the New York Giants at Super Bowl XLII in Phoenix, Arizona.

Over his nearly 20 years in the business, Papa has enjoyed bringing a light-hearted personal touch to his sportscast. He has covered a wide variety of sports and entertainment events, from the Super Bowl to the World Series. He's no stranger to the lighter side of reporting as witnessed by his ride in the Wheel of Steel with the famed clown Bello of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, trying out as a New York Jets Cheerleader, racing cars against professional drivers, and skating with Goofy at Disney on Ice.

Papa is a Long Island native and New York University graduate. He enjoys spending his spare time with his son Kyle and working on improving his golf handicap.