ESPN confirm latest victim of ruthless cuts as 14-year anchor is laid off
The ruthless cuts of talent at ESPN have continued with revered basketball analyst Mark Jackson the latest big name to be forced out by the "worldwide leader".
ESPN, which is owned by Disney, has cut thousands of jobs so far this year, predominantly behind the scenes. But many famous faces from its on-screen talent have faced the axe, too, including Jackson's broadcast partner and former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy.
Max Kellerman, Keyshawn Johnson, Suzy Kolber, Steve Young, Todd McShay and Jalen Rose are also among the staff to be let go in the cuts so far.
“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 organisation for the past 15+ years,” Jackson said in a statement after his departure was confirmed.
“It has been an honour 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.
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"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 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 is the latest big name to be cut by ESPN. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)Jackson, 58, was an All-Star as a player and had stints with the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers, Indiana Pacers and several other teams. He was also the head coach of the Golden State Warriors from 2011-14.
After Van Gundy's departure, ESPN considered demoting Jackson to its second crew, according to the New York Post. However, the organisation decided to end his contract two years early, with Richard Jefferson and JJ Redick set to be handed bigger games to analyse when the 2023-24 season begins in October.
Veteran announcer Mike Breen is the only remaining member of ESPN's three-man "A-team" for NBA games, and he is set to be joined by Doris Burke and NBA title-winning head coach Doc Rivers for next season.
Former Boston Celtics and Clippers head coach Rivers, 61, is out of a job after he was fired by the Philadelphia 76ers in the aftermath of a Game 7 defeat to the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals in May.
Jackson's closing line in his statement showed his class as he leaves ESPN after more than a decade. “I wish greater measures of success to the new ESPN team,” he added. “May they continue to elevate this game that has given me a home and a life. I leave ESPN with nothing but gratitude.”
A much-changed ESPN lineup will be led by former NFL punter Pat McAfee in the fall. His hugely popular daily YouTube show will become a multi-platform programme on linear TV and online after he signed a five-year, $85million deal.
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