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

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Legendary ESPN commentator Mark Jones will call his final game for the network in April as the NBA and WNBA broadcast great moves on.

The sports media veteran joined ESPN back in 1990 and is currently one of the longest-tenured commentators. However, Jones’ career will move forward without being at the Worldwide Leader in Sports.

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The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand reveals that Jones is leaving the company after 36 years with ESPN. Meanwhile, Marchand also indicated when the longtime NBA and WNBA broadcast professional will have his final day.

End of an era: Mark Jones will call his last game for ESPN on Sunday after being with the company since 1990.

(via @AndrewMarchand) pic.twitter.com/hExYwOQyOW

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 10, 2026

The veteran play-by-play announcer’s final game with ESPN will come on April 21. For many years, Jones has balanced his ESPN workload with other broadcasts.

Jones’ primary role has been serving as the Sacramento Kings’ lead broadcaster since being handed the role in 2020. Since then, Jones is certainly one of the top play-by-play voices in the NBA, boasting significant experience across several decades.

However, the convoluted ESPN roster of NBA talent shifted Jones’ role during recent years. Mike Breen remains the lead voice for the network during pro basketball games.

Jones is often featured at other NBA events for the network, including the NBA Draft, NBA Lottery and others. Meanwhile, Ryan Ruocco and Dave Pasch also chime in for NBA and WNBA game coverage as well.

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It appears that Jones wants to continue with his Kings endeavors though, which is a positive sign for one of the best broadcasters in the sport. It’s unclear if he will find another network to provide commentary on during college football season.

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ESPN broadcasters Richard Jefferson, Monica McNutt and Mark Jones at the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images


ESPN did provide a generous statement after news broke of Jones’ departure.

“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,” ESPN said. “We’re grateful for Mark’s countless contributions and we wish him continued success.”

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