NBA Announcer Mark Jackson Confirms He Was Fired From ESPN After 15 Years w/ The Network, Fans React: ‘This Was Not Deserved & You Will Be Missed’ 

Mark Jackson

NBA Announcer Mark Jackson Confirms He Was Fired From ESPN After 15 Years w/ The Network, Fans React: ‘This Was Not Deserved & You Will Be Missed’

NBA broadcast commentator Mark Jackson has been fired by ESPN.

According to reports, Mark Jackson, 58, is the latest on-air talent who was laid off as part of job cuts by the sports programming network. In addition to the retired NBA star, his broadcast partner and former coach, Jeff Van Gundy, was among the multiple commentators and reporters let go by the network in June. Reports claim ESPN executives believed Mark Jackson’s value had been reduced by Jeff Van Gundy’s dismissal.

Mark Jackson

In a statement shared to his social media accounts, Jackson confirmed the news of his departure from ESPN after 15 years. While surprised at his unexpected exit from the network, the longtime announcer gave positive remarks toward his former on-air partners, his rumored replacements, and the network.

He wrote,

“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.”

Jackson went on and noted his appreciation for his former on-air co-hosts Mike Breen, Lisa Salters, and Jeff Van Gundy.

“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.” 

Toward the end of his statement, Jackson sent well wishes to the network’s new NBA commentators, former 76ers coach Doc Rivers and NBA broadcast veteran Doris Burke. The two are reportedly set to join play-by-play announcer Mike Breen.

He added,

“Finally, I wish greater measures of success to the new ESPN team. May they continue to elevate this game that has given me a home and a life. I leave ESPN with nothing but gratitude, all the while knowing that my highest praise goes to God! Through it all, He has always sustained me and His grace allows me to know that there are greater blessings ahead. I look forward to what He has in store next.”

Social media users have since reacted to the news of Jackson’s departure from ESPN, with many users saddened to learn they will no longer hear his commentary on the network.

See reactions below:

What are your thoughts on ESPN firing Mark Jackson from the network? Let us know in the comments below! 

[Sources: 1, 2]