• Veteran NBA announcer Mark Jackson was let go from ESPN on Monday
• Jackson issued a statement expressing his shock while thanking his coworkers like Mike Breen, Jeff Van Gundy, and Lisa Salters
• This continues a string of cuts from ESPN, who have let go of Keyshawn Johnson, Jalen Rose, Max Kellerman, and many others
The recent employee shakeups at ESPN will have large consequences on sports media, as some notable names have been let go by the broadcaster. The latest casualty is NBA commentator Mark Jackson.
Jackson was let go on Monday after Jeff van Gundy was fired earlier in the layoff cycle. Jackson addressed everyone in an emotional message after his dismissal.
“This morning, unexpectedly, I was informed that my services were no longer needed at ESPN. Although shocked and dismayed with the suddenness of it all, I would like to thank ESPN and all the staff of the NBA ESPN crew for allowing me to be a part of the organization for the past 15+ years. I would also like to thank the NBA fans watching at home and in the arenas throughout the league for all of your support. To the NBA, a heartfelt thank you for allowing a kid to continue to accomplish his dreams.”
The former head coach specifically thanked co-workers Mike Breen, Jeff van Gundy, Lisa Salters, and Tim Corrigan.
“It has been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business, who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, and learn so much from them. Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I’m so proud of the work she continues to do. To the best producer in the world, and my friend, Tim Corrigan, I give the utmost gratitude and thanks for always inspiring and supporting me. To all of the staff and crew, that may have never been seen on camera… please know that you were always seen by me and so greatly appreciated.”
Mark Jackson posts a message after being stunningly let go by ESPN this morning:
"It's been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy… Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I'm proud of the work… pic.twitter.com/f6FwkU0Oee
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 1, 2023
Jackson ended his address by wishing ESPN well while thanking God for the opportunities he’s received.
ESPN has multiple names in contention to join the commentary team next to Mike Breen but seems to be zeroing in on names like Doris Burke, Doc Rivers, JJ Redick, or others to join Breen next season.
Could Mark Jackson Return To Coaching?
Mark Jackson is primarily a former player and NBA coach, one of the finest point guards of his generation. He is sixth all-time in assists, dishing 10,334 dimes in his career.
He was the coach that brought Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green into prominence before being fired for Steve Kerr the year they won their first title.
Jackson has been rumored for NBA coaching jobs but never nailed one down. Many think it’s due to the views he holds on the LGBTQ+ community.
In our opinion, Jackson could find his way onto the assistant coaching staff of a franchise if he’s willing to do that. Continuing a search for head coaching roles may be a challenge, as Jackson has been out of coaching for almost a decade now.
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