ESPN has dumped NBA analysts Jeff Van Gundy and Galen Rose amid a round of cost-saving layoffs at the network. It reportedly includes approximately 20 on-air personalities. The New York Post was the first to report the news. Here’s what you need to know:
- Van Gundy confirmed his experience to the athlete But he declined to comment on Friday. A source familiar with the decision confirmed that Rose is among the cuts.
- Van Gundy has served as an NBA analyst for ESPN since 2007, most notably on the NBA Finals broadcasts alongside Mike Breen and Mark Jackson.
- Rose has also worked for ESPN since 2007, appearing as a studio analyst on “NBA Countdown” since 2012.
the athleteInstant Analysis:
How amazing is that?
ESPN’s NBA game broadcast production has long been considered one of the company’s strongest units. Where Turner Sports could always boast of “Inside The NBA,” ESPN had great success with its leading NBA team and a big part of that was Van Gundy, who combined a great view of the game with genuine humor and showmanship.
It’s a huge loss for viewers. ESPN is under financial pressure from Disney to cut costs, but Van Gundy being part of the layoffs was really unexpected. He was informed of the decision on Friday morning. A possible replacement would come from the group of Doris Burke, JJ Redick, or a recently fired coach like Doc Rivers. – German
the background
Van Gundy, 61, just wrapped up his 17th season in the ESPN booth. Prior to his broadcasting career, Van Gundy had served as a head coach with the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.
Rose, 50, recently ended his long-running daily show, “Jalen & Jacoby.” He joined the network in 2007 after a 13-year career in the NBA.
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(Photo: Mitchell Leaf/Getty Images)