Mark Jones Exits ESPN After 36 Years to Join Sacramento Kings

Veteran sportscaster Mark Jones exits ESPN after 36 years to focus on his Sacramento role. He confirmed to Filmogaz.com that he will return next season as the primary television play-by-play voice for the Kings on NBC Sports California.

Local commitment and immediate plans

Jones said he plans to remain in Sacramento long term. He made the comments before Friday’s game against the Golden State Warriors at Golden 1 Center.

The 64-year-old has served as the Kings’ lead TV announcer since 2020 while juggling ESPN duties. He will call his final ESPN game on Sunday when the Orlando Magic visit the Boston Celtics.

Broadcasting background

Jones began his career at The Sports Network in Canada. ESPN later hired him to host NBA Today and broaden his national profile.

Over decades, he has worked NBA, WNBA, and college football play-by-play assignments. His vocabulary and delivery became familiar to viewers nationwide.

Kings broadcast team

The Kings hired Jones in November 2020 to replace Grant Napear. He originally worked with Doug Christie, who later moved into the coaching staff.

Jones now partners with Kayte Christensen as the team’s color commentator. Kyle Draper serves as studio host and fills in on play-by-play when Jones has ESPN commitments.

Future role

Jones would not confirm whether he will call Kings games full time next season. He said he feels welcomed and looks forward to the work in Sacramento.

This move effectively sees Mark Jones exit ESPN after 36 years and concentrate on the Sacramento broadcast role he first took in 2020.