Update 08/01/2023 2:10pm:
Previously, it was revealed that ESPN laid off Mark Jackson, who was a fan-favorite of the network. It was also noted that Jackson would be replaced by Doc Rivers for the upcoming NBA season. Since then, Jackson wrote and posted a letter on social media speaking on the news.
“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 part of the organization for the past 15+ years,” said Jackson in a portion of the letter.
Jackson then gave a shoutout to Jeff Van Gundy and Mike Breen, before wishing success to the new hires at ESPN. Take a look above.
source: Twitter
Original 07/31/2023 5:16pm:
According to reports, ESPN is laying off fan-favorite Mark Jackson in lieu of bringing Doc Rivers back into the fold as an on-air commentator to work with Doris Burke during the company's broadcast of NBA games this season. Doc Rivers originally occupied Jackson's role before he accepted the head coaching job with the Boston Celtics in 2004.
Mark Jackson, the NBA's fifth all-time assist leader, had been with ESPN since 2006. His firing is the latest domino to fall in a series of company-wide layoffs, including Max Kellerman, Bomani Jones, Keyshawn Johnson, Neil Everett, Steve Young, and more.
Source: NY Post
