Mark Jones to leave ESPN after 36-year broadcasting run: Sources

ESPN NBA and school soccer play-by-play announcer Mark Jones is leaving the community after greater than three many years, sources briefed on the transfer informed TheAthletic on Friday.

Jones, 64, was as soon as the community’s No. 2 NBA play-by-player and referred to as two Finals video games when Mike Breen examined optimistic for COVID in 2022.

Jones has moved down the NBA depth chart over the previous few years behind Breen, Dave Pasch and Ryan Ruocco.

ESPN launched a press release Friday thanking Jones for his work, however didn’t publicly verify that he was leaving the community.

“Mark has made an enduring impact at ESPN since 1990, serving as a signature voice primarily within our NBA and college football coverage and across nearly all of our platforms,” ESPN stated. “We’re grateful for Mark’s countless contributions and we wish him continued success.”

Jones just isn’t anticipated to retire, though his subsequent steps are unclear. Besides his NBA work, Jones was a constant presence on ESPN’s school soccer presentation, together with on the Pac-12 late-night motion when the community carried these video games.

The Toronto native has additionally labored video games for the Sacramento Kings as a neighborhood play-by-player, however the bulk of his profession has been at ESPN/ABC, the place he has been a daily presence.

Besides play-by-play, Jones has been a featured member on the community’s studio protection for the Finals, Draft Lottery, All-Star sport and different massive occasions.

Jones’ last sport on ESPN can be Sunday night when the Boston Celtics face the Orlando Magic. The sport is scheduled to begin at 6 pm ET.