A renowned NBA announcer and former All-Star guard bid goodbye to ESPN after 15 years of service. Taking to social media to say his goodbyes to his fans and panelists, the former Warriors coach wrote in his message that he was informed that his services were no longer needed at the sports cable network, conveying his departure from ESPN. Nobody anticipated this move, even from within ESPN, and it has shocked the NBA community. However, thanking the network and its staff for allowing him to work for the company has earned the NBA All-Star even more respect in the eyes of the audience.

The presenter even gave special praise to his co-announcers, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, who had grown to be like family to him during their time together. But a ‘teammate’ of his was very disappointed with his departure – Stephen A. Smith. Smith took it upon himself to tell the world about his feelings and how the renowned announcer made the likes of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson into the stars they are today.

ESPN bids goodbye to their loyal announcer

Mark Jackson, the Knicks legend, had been an integral part of ESPN for 15 years. He started working as an announcer in 2006, following the conclusion of his illustrious playing career with the New York Knicks. Becoming one of the leading voices in NBA broadcasting, he very quickly gained much appreciation due to his knowledge and insightful commentary, his analyses of the game portraying a unique perspective.

Even after boasting so much knowledge and experience of the sport, though, ESPN had to let him go. They conducted a mass layoff of around 17 employees, including Jackson and his longtime broadcast partner Jeff Van Gundy. But one of his co-workers, Stephen A. Smith, spoke about his feelings about this matter out loud.

Smith started off by praising Jackson and his achievements. He said, “Jackson was a friend. He started at St. Johns. I tried to do something. He was Rookie of the Year in the NBA. I wasn’t gifted enough to make it to the NBA. Jackson is a brilliant basketball mind and an accomplished player, an elite and cerebral point guard, and an even better man.”

He further added by saying, “He is an elite analyst who should land on his feet, but I would by lying if I said I wasn’t concerned if he would get the opportunity.” Smith even shares his disappointment over how Jackson is not an elite basketball coach in the NBA.

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Smith said that Jackson was let go by the Golden State Warriors after he gave 3 years to build a formidable team. And that they brought in Steve Kerr who is a great coach but “inherited a foundation built by Mark Jackson.” He further said that he knows too many coaches who have had second chances to prove themselves and asks, “Why hasn’t that happened for Mark Jackson? The likelihood of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson becoming what they became would not have happened if it were not for Mark Jackson.”

By pointing out Jackson’s achievements, Smith showed why he should be given a second chance at being a coach, perhaps of the Warriors.

What is next for Mark Jackson?

As this marks a new chapter in his life, Jackson’s broadcasting legacy remains secure. Fans will not be able to forget his insightful analysis and the memories he created with his fellow panelists.

The NBA world will always cherish Jackson’s contribution, despite ESPN’s potential broadcast team changes. And in the end, as he leaves, Jackson has undoubtedly left his mark on every basketball enthusiast.

Mark Jackson’s departure from ESPN may signal the end of one chapter, but it opens doors for exciting possibilities in his future endeavors. Fans expect him to keep up his sports broadcasting while Stephen A. Smith thinks Jackson deserves another chance to coach in the NBA.

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What do you think is next for Mark Jackson – analysis or coaching? Let us know in the comments below!