ESPN has fired NBA analyst and color commentator Mark Jackson after 10 years with the network. The move comes as part of a larger round of layoffs at ESPN, which has been hit hard by declining ratings and revenue.
Jackson was a popular analyst for ESPN, and he was known for his fiery personality and his insights into the game of basketball. He was also a part of the network’s top NBA broadcast team, which included Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, who’s contract was terminated last month.
However, Jackson’s contract was not renewed, and he was let go by ESPN on Monday. The network has not released a statement about the reasons for Jackson’s firing, but it is believed that the decision was made due to financial reasons.
After the news broke, Jackson issued a statement, in which he thanked his colleagues and the entire network, but also revealed he was shocked:
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.
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.
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.
Blessings, Mark J
— Mark Jackson (@MarkJackson13) August 1, 2023
Jackson’s firing is the latest in a string of high-profile departures from ESPN. The network has also let go of several other on-air personalities, including Jemele Hill, Keith Olbermann, and Dan LeBatard.
The layoffs at ESPN are a sign of the changing landscape of the sports media industry. As more and more people are turning to streaming services for their sports content, traditional media companies like ESPN are struggling to keep up. Jackson and Van Gundy however, are expected to be replaced by Doris Burke and Doc Rivers.
