Jul 17, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; ESPN analysts/commentators Mark Jackson (left) with Jeff Van Gundy (center) and Mike Breen during the Phoenix Suns against the Milwaukee Bucks during game five of the 2021 NBA Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
NBA: Finals-Milwaukee Bucks at Phoenix Suns
(Bristol, CT) — ESPN is laying off two their top NBA personalities.
The New York Post reports Jalen Rose and Jeff Van Gundy have been let go by the Network.
ESPN informed all of its employees Friday morning of the cuts, and the company is reportedly set to lay off around 20 on-air personalities.
Van Gundy, 61, has been with ESPN for 16 years, calling the Finals with Mike Breen and co-game Mark Jackson.
His salary is not known, but the post confirmed he was “making millions.”
JJ Redick, Doris Burke and Richard Jefferson are the most likely candidates to replace Van Gundy.
As for Rose, he joined ESPN in 2007 after retiring from the NBA. He was on of the top studio analysts on the ABC/ESPN broadcast.
ESPN released the following statement.
“Given the current environment, ESPN has determined it necessary to identify some additional cost savings. This is an extremely challenging process, involving individuals who have had tremendous impact on our company. These difficult decisions, based more on overall efficiency than merit, will help us meet our financial targets and ensure future growth.”
