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Mark Jones Shares Reason For Sudden ESPN Departure

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Apr 10, 2026 1:07 PM ET

For decades Mark Jones has been one of the most beloved (if underappreciated) voices at ESPN on football and basketball coverage. But in a surprise announcement, he's calling it quits at the end of this very weekend.

Reports emerged this morning that Jones would suddenly be leaving at the end of this weekend. Speculation quickly emerged that there was some sort of massive falling out or that he was being fired.

But according to reporter Barry Jackson, it was simply a choice. ESPN has asserted that Jones was welcome to stay, but Jones said that he just feels it's time.

"Mark Jones, who has long South Florida ties, is leaving ESPN by choice, he tells me. He simply felt it was time. ESPN says he could have stayed if he wanted. Magic-Celtics at 6 p.m. Sunday will be his final ESPN appearance; there will be an ESPN tribute to him during the game," Jackson wrote on X.

Mark Jones, who has long South Florida ties, is leaving ESPN by choice, he tells me. He simply felt it was time. ESPN says he could have stayed if he wanted. Magic-Celtics at 6 p.m. Sunday will be his final ESPN appearance; there will be an ESPN tribute to him during the game.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 10, 2026

According to Jackson, Jones doesn't appear to be retiring and might be continuing in his role as the play-by-play lead for the Sacramento Kings through NBC Sports California.

"Jones was one of ESPN's top 3 NBA play-by-players (behind Breen, Pasch in this year's hierarchy) and top 6 college football announcers (ESPN has a clear top 6). His unique, distinct style (and very specific references to South Florida communities) will be missed by many. Jones remains the TV voice of the Sacramento Kings," Jackson wrote.

"One of Jones' friends and longtime colleagues, the classy Doris Burke, will do Jones' final game with him. Mark said he'll talk about his thinking and plans in the days ahead. (ESPN does good work doing final game tributes to announcers; the Hubie finale on Super Bowl Sunday 2025 was elegant and exceptional.)"

Mar 23, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; ESPN broadcasters Mark Jackson (left) and Mark Jones during the NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Philadelphia 76ers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

A lasting legacy

Jones has built a long and versatile career as one of ESPN’s most recognizable play-by-play voices, particularly in college basketball and the NBA. After starting in Canadian broadcasting, Jones joined ESPN in the early 1990s and gradually became a staple of the network’s coverage. He has called a wide range of sports, but is best known for his work on high-profile college basketball games, including the NCAA Tournament, as well as NBA broadcasts. Over time, he developed a distinctive on-air style marked by energy, creativity, and memorable catchphrases, helping him stand out among national broadcasters.

Throughout his career, he has been praised for his ability to blend detailed analysis with entertainment, while also using his platform to speak on social and cultural issues. With decades of experience across multiple sports and major events, Jones remains a respected and influential voice in sports media.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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