Arguably one of the best, and most iconic commentators in NBA History, Jeff Van Gundy was let go by ESPN earlier today. Known for his interesting insight and humor, Van Gundy is no longer a commentator for ESPN/ABC.
Van Gundy spent 16 years at the network, and the NBA fan will find a new voice to turn to without Van Gundy.
Jeff’s Background
Van Gundy has a storied past in coaching. Jeff began as an assistant at Rutgers and Providence before becoming an assistant with the NY Knicks. In 1996, he established himself as the head coach for the NY Knicks and coached there for seven seasons. He then went to Houston where he coached for four seasons before getting fired in 2006-2007.
After being fired, he became a commentator with Mark Jackson. He performed broadcasting with Jackson and Hall of Fame Play-by-Play announcer Mike Breen for the next 16 seasons.
Broadcasting Achievements
Van Gundy broadcasted 100 NBA Final games, 16 NBA Finals, and countless playoff games. He was well-known across the broadcast landscape. More specifically, sources described Van Gundy as the glue that kept the broadcasting team together. Van Gundy will be synonymous with an excellent broadcasting team.
Why did ESPN Fire Van Gundy?
The reports just came out, so a little hard to tell why Van Gundy was fired. However, ESPN is trying to save more money and let go of 2o other members of the broadcasting team to save more money. Amongst other talent being let go, Jalen Rose is in the mix of those let go as well. On a positive note, all the Talent let go will have their contracts fully paid before they exit ESPN.
ESPN believes these short-term cuts were necessary. The team at ESPN commentated that these layoffs will, “help (ESPN) reach its financial targets and ensure future growth.”
Van Gundy and Rose were two of the top analysts and commentators for ESPN, so it will be interesting to see who replaces them in the future.
Who will Replace Van Gundy?
Since Van Gundy is gone from ESPN, there is a spot for another individual from Talent to fill in. Some sources believe it could be a two-man show with Jackson and Breen, or promote JJ Redick, Dorris Burke, or Richard Jefferson into that role.
ESPN made a surprising decision in their talent layoffs and better hope they can build a strong future with their current broadcasting team.
