Mark Jones Concludes 36-Year Tenure at ESPN

Mark Jones, a prominent play-by-play announcer for ESPN, is set to conclude his 36-year career with the network. His final broadcast will take place on April 21, 2026, during the game between the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic. This decision comes as Jones, 64, opts to leave the network on his own terms, despite ESPN indicating he could have continued his role. ESPN confirmed his departure, expressing gratitude for his significant contributions to the network's NBA and college football coverage.

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Jones joined ESPN in 1990 and quickly became one of the network's leading voices, particularly in NBA and college football broadcasts. He was once the second-ranking NBA play-by-play announcer, stepping in to call two NBA Finals games in 2022 when Mike Breen tested positive for COVID-19. Over the years, Jones has covered a wide array of sports, including men’s and women’s college basketball, the WNBA, and NHL games. His versatility also extended to local broadcasts for the Sacramento Kings, where he has served as the lead broadcaster since 2020.

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Jones is known for his unique storytelling style and cultural references, which have resonated with audiences. He has been a vocal advocate for the importance of Black play-by-play voices in sports, emphasizing the need to humanize players and connect them with fans.

NBA announcer Mark Jones leaving ESPN after 36 years; final broadcast set for Sunday

ESPN released a statement acknowledging Jones' impact: “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. We’re grateful for Mark’s countless contributions and we wish him continued success.” Jones himself expressed gratitude for his time at ESPN, stating, “It’s been a memorable journey... but I have decided that it’s time to move on. I believe my best work is yet to come.”

The Sun - USNew York PostVeteran announcer Mark Jones leaving ESPNESPN reveals final day for 36-year NBA, WNBA broadcast legendMark Jones to Depart ESPN Following 36-Year Broadcasting CareerReport: NBA broadcaster Mark Jones set to call final game with ESPNWhy Mark Jones chose to leave ESPN after 36 yearsLongtime ESPN play-by-play voice Mark Jones leaving network SundaySports Business Journal

While Jones' departure has been met with widespread appreciation, some observers have raised concerns about the future of ESPN's NBA broadcast team. With Jones leaving and Breen also nearing retirement age, questions arise regarding the network's ability to maintain its legacy of basketball commentary.

ESPN reveals final day for 36-year NBA, WNBA broadcast legend

Following his departure from ESPN, Jones is not expected to retire. He will continue his role as the primary voice for the Sacramento Kings, indicating that he intends to remain active in sports broadcasting. As he embarks on this new chapter, fans and colleagues alike are eager to see where his career will lead next.

NBA announcer Mark Jones leaving ESPN after 36 years; final broadcast set for Sunday

• “It’s been a memorable journey these decades with the ABC/ESPN family, but I have decided that it’s time to move on.” — Mark Jones

The Sun - US

• “He has been with ESPN since 1990.” — ESPN Statement

Veteran announcer Mark Jones leaving ESPN

Jones' final game marks the end of an era for ESPN, leaving a notable gap in its NBA coverage as he transitions to new opportunities in the broadcasting landscape.

ESPN reveals final day for 36-year NBA, WNBA broadcast legend