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 instructed The Athletic on Friday.

Jones, 64, was as soon as the community’s No. 2 NBA play-by-player and known as two Finals video games when Mike Breen examined constructive 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 an announcement Friday thanking Jones for his work, however didn’t affirm publicly that he was leaving the community.

“Mark has made a permanent impression at ESPN since 1990, serving as a signature voice primarily inside our NBA and school soccer protection and throughout almost all of our platforms,” ESPN mentioned. “We’re grateful for Mark’s numerous contributions and we want him continued success.”

Jones will not be anticipated to retire, although his subsequent steps are unclear. Apart from 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.

Apart from 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’ ultimate sport on ESPN can be Sunday night when the Boston Celtics face the Orlando Magic. The sport is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. ET.