ESPN made headlines when they unexpectedly parted ways with long-time NBA color commentator Jeff Van Gundy before the end of June.
Surprisingly, Van Gundy’s broadcasting partner, Mark Jackson, was not affected by the layoffs.
This decision raised questions among fans about the factors behind it.
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Former ESPN reporter Ethan Strauss offered some insights, speculating that it may have been influenced by Jackson’s close relationship with ESPN Vice President of Production, Tim Corrigan.
Strauss mentioned in his “House of Strauss” newsletter that Corrigan has an unusual bond with Jackson, which potentially had a role in the decision to let go of Van Gundy while keeping Jackson.
ESPN vice president of production Tim Corrigan — the lead NBA producer — likely had a hand in the choice of whether it was going to be Van Gundy or Jackson for the chopping block. That’s not 100 percent, but it’s informed speculation and in keeping with how ESPN does things.
Jackson’s unusual bond with Corrigan has likely saved him yet again, in a circumstance where he would have logically been under threat.
The sports media scene rumor is that Doc Rivers could be a possibility on game broadcasts, in part because he’s making so much off a yet-to-expire coaching contract. If Rivers can be had for a psalm, you can keep the three-man booth together while saving money.
Van Gundy was one of the biggest names among the 20 on-air personalities laid off by ESPN.
Other notable figures included Max Kellerman, Jalen Rose, Suzy Kolber, and Keyshawn Johnson.
After serving as an NBA analyst for ESPN for 16 years, Van Gundy is rumored to be interested in returning to NBA coaching.
There have been reports linking him to the assistant coaching positions with the Dallas Mavericks and the Washington Wizards.
Prior to joining ESPN, Van Gundy spent over a decade as a head coach in the NBA, working with the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.
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