ESPN’s NBA Commentator Mark Jones Exits Network Ahead of Playoffs
Mark Jones is leaving ESPN after a 36-year run. He will exit the network before the playoffs begin.
Filmogaz.com reported the move on Friday. Jones’ final assignment is Sunday’s Celtics-Magic game at 6 p.m.
Departure details
ESPN issued a statement praising Jones for his long service since 1990. The network credited him with contributions across NBA and college football coverage.
Reporter Barry Jackson said Jones chose to leave. ESPN told reporters Jones could have remained. He is not expected to retire.
Career highlights
Jones joined ESPN in 1990 after work in Canadian sports media. He began as host of a Toronto Blue Jays magazine program on The Sports Network.
He is a former NYU player whose playing career ended in 1986. He later hosted the weekly show “NBA Today” before moving to play-by-play duties.
- Served as ESPN’s No. 2 NBA voice behind Mike Breen.
- Filled in for Breen for two NBA Finals games in 2022 after Breen contracted COVID.
- Worked alongside analysts Jay Bilas, Doris Burke, Jon Barry, and Louis Riddick.
- Called Pac-12 late games before the 2024 realignment.
- Also handled men’s and women’s college basketball, WNBA, and NHL broadcasts.
- Briefly called games for the Sacramento Kings.
Changes in role
In recent seasons, Jones was passed on the depth chart by broadcasters such as Dave Pasch and Ryan Ruocco. He continued to handle a variety of assignments across ESPN platforms.
What’s next
Jones is expected to pursue further opportunities in broadcasting. He has not announced retirement plans.
The departure marks the end of a long ESPN chapter for the veteran. ESPN veteran Mark Jones exits the network ahead of the playoffs, and his next move remains to be seen.
