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Mark Jones Departs ESPN After 36 Years: A Broadcasting Era Ends | Bears Rookie Minicamp: Legacy Connections and Veteran Tryouts | WNBA's New CBA: A Transformative Deal | Texas Tech Advances to Big 12 Championship Game | Tiafoe vs. Buse: 2026 Italian Open Preview and Betting Insights | Jim Miller Returns to UFC 328 After Son's Cancer Battle | Dale Earnhardt Jr. Weighs In on NASCAR's Most Popular Driver Debate: Hocevar vs. Elliott | 2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule and Key Insights | Fenerbahçe vs. Konyaspor: A Decisive Süper Lig Clash | Mark Jones Departs ESPN After 36 Years: A Broadcasting Era Ends | Bears Rookie Minicamp: Legacy Connections and Veteran Tryouts | WNBA's New CBA: A Transformative Deal | Texas Tech Advances to Big 12 Championship Game | Tiafoe vs. Buse: 2026 Italian Open Preview and Betting Insights | Jim Miller Returns to UFC 328 After Son's Cancer Battle | Dale Earnhardt Jr. Weighs In on NASCAR's Most Popular Driver Debate: Hocevar vs. Elliott | 2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule and Key Insights | Fenerbahçe vs. Konyaspor: A Decisive Süper Lig Clash

Sports / Sports Business

Mark Jones Departs ESPN After 36 Years: A Broadcasting Era Ends

Mark Jones, a signature voice for ESPN's NBA and college football coverage, is leaving the network after 36 years. His departure marks the end of an era for many sports fans who have grown accustomed to his play-by-play commentary and signa...

Mark Jones to leave ESPN after 36-year broadcasting run: Sources
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Mark Jones Departs ESPN After 36 Years: A Broadcasting Era Ends Image via The New York Times

Key Insights

  • Mark Jones is leaving ESPN after 36 years, with his final broadcast on Sunday, April 12, 2026, for the Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics game.
  • Jones started at ESPN in 1990 and became known for his NBA play-by-play, including calling two NBA Finals games in 2022 when Mike Breen had COVID.
  • ESPN released a statement thanking Jones for his contributions to the network's NBA and college football coverage.
  • Jones's signature phrase, 'hotter than fish grease,' became a memorable part of his broadcasts.
  • He also covered college football, men’s and women’s college basketball, the WNBA, and the UFL during his tenure.

In-Depth Analysis

Mark Jones's departure from ESPN signifies a shift in the network's broadcasting landscape. After joining ESPN in 1990, Jones became a consistent presence, known for his play-by-play commentary in NBA and college football games. He was once the network's No. 2 NBA play-by-play announcer, even calling two NBA Finals games when Mike Breen was unavailable. Over the years, Jones also contributed to ESPN's coverage of men’s and women’s college basketball, the WNBA, and the UFL.

Beyond play-by-play, Jones was a featured member on the network’s studio coverage for the Finals, Draft Lottery, All-Star game, and other big events. His final game on ESPN was on Sunday evening between the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic.

While his next steps are unclear, Jones has indicated that he is not retiring and believes his best work is yet to come. His departure marks the end of a long and impactful career at ESPN, leaving fans to wonder what the future holds for the veteran announcer.

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FAQ

Why is Mark Jones leaving ESPN?

Mark Jones has decided that it’s time to move on to the next chapter of his career after 36 years with the network.

What was Mark Jones best known for at ESPN?

He is best known for calling NBA games and his signature phrase “hotter than fish grease.”

When was Mark Jones's last game on ESPN?

His last game was Sunday, April 12, 2026, when the Boston Celtics faced the Orlando Magic.

Takeaways

  • Mark Jones's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in ESPN's broadcasting history.
  • Jones had a long and impactful career at ESPN, contributing to NBA, college football, and other sports coverage.
  • Fans will remember Jones for his play-by-play commentary and signature phrases, like 'hotter than fish grease.'

Discussion

What are your favorite memories of Mark Jones's time at ESPN? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

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