Jackson Officially Leaving Nets Broadcast Booth

Mark Jackson announced that tonight marks his last game behind the microphone on Nets broadcast. Jackson slipped it in during the nightly third quarter segment of the broadcast that reviews the text message results of the question of the night, which conincidentally asked viewers to vote on where Mark Jackson would be next year.

Though widely rumored to be among the leading candidates for the Knicks head coaching job, or another GM or coaching position in the NBA, Jackson stated that he will focus on broadcasting for ESPN/ABC full-time - as of now, at least. He cited family issues, his wife and kids live in Los Angeles, for the decision to leave the Nets. Over three seasons as the Nets lead analyst, Jackson has emerged as a top-notch broadcaster, balancing a quick wit and solid ability to break down basketball from an X’s and O’s perspective in simple, understandable terms for viewers. The New York native had great chemistry with both play-by-play men, Marv Albert and Ian Eagle, making for entertaining, informative broadcasts, even as the Nets struggled this year.

Jackson will begin broadcasting the NBA playoffs on ESPN and ABC with Jeff Van Gundy and Mike Breen this weekend. If he continues in that position next year, remains to be seen.