Mark Jackson is out from ESPN, Doc Rivers set to replace him / News - Basketnews.com

Mark Jackson leaves ESPN as Doc Rivers is expected to replace him during ABC broadcasts.

Credit: AFP-Scanpix Credit AFP-Scanpix

ESPN released its long-time announcer, Mark Jackson, Andrew Marchand from the New York Post reports.

Jackson has worked with ESPN since 2006 before leaving in 2011 to take a head coaching job with the Golden State Warriors. He made his return to ESPN in May 2014 after being fired by the Warriors.

Jackson also confirmed the news by releasing a statement on Twitter:

"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 a part of the organization for the past 15+ years.

I would also like to thank the NBA fans watching at home and in the arenas throughout the league for all of your support. To the NBA, a heartfelt thank you for allowing a kid to continue to accomplish his dreams.

It has been an honor to sit beside two LEGENDS in the business, who are like brothers to me, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy, and learn so much from them. Lisa Salters is a GOAT and like a sister to me and I'm so proud of the work she continues to do.

To the best producer in the world, and my friend, Tim Corrigan, I give the utmost gratitude and thanks for always inspiring and supporting me.

To all of the staff and crew, that may have never been seen on camera... please know that you were always seen by me and so greatly appreciated.

Finally, I wish greater measures of success to the new ESPN team. May they continue to elevate this game that has given me a home and a life. I leave ESPN with nothing but gratitude, all the while knowing that my highest praise goes to God!

Through it all, He has always sustained me and His grace allows me to know that there are greater blessings ahead. I look forward to what He has in store next.

Blessings, Mark J."

Marchand reports that ESPN is expected to replace Jackson with Doc Rivers. Even though the deal is not finalized, it's moving in the right direction.

Rivers has experience of being an announcer. He worked with ESPN during the 2003-04 season and covered the 2004 NBA Finals.

Earlier, it was reported that Jeff Van Gundy was also relieved from his duties at ESPN. According to Marchand, ESPN is ready to promote Doris Burke and make her the first woman TV analyst on the NBA Finals.

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