Reports emerged this morning that Jones would suddenly be leaving at the end of this weekend. Speculation quickly emerged that there was some sort of massive falling out or that he was being fired.

But according to reporter Barry Jackson, it was simply a choice. ESPN has asserted that Jones was welcome to stay, but Jones said that he just feels it’s time.

“Mark Jones, who has long South Florida ties, is leaving ESPN by choice, he tells me. He simply felt it was time. ESPN says he could have stayed if he wanted. Magic-Celtics at 6 p.m. Sunday will be his final ESPN appearance; there will be an ESPN tribute to him during the game,” Jackson wrote on X.

According to Jackson, Jones doesn’t appear to be retiring and might be continuing in his role as the play-by-play lead for the Sacramento Kings through NBC Sports California.

“Jones was one of ESPN’s top 3 NBA play-by-players (behind Breen, Pasch in this year’s hierarchy) and top 6 college football announcers (ESPN has a clear top 6). His unique, distinct style (and very specific references to South Florida communities) will be missed by many. Jones remains the TV voice of the Sacramento Kings,” Jackson wrote.

“One of Jones’ friends and longtime colleagues, the classy Doris Burke, will do Jones’ final game with him. Mark said he’ll talk about his thinking and plans in the days ahead. (ESPN does good work doing final game tributes to announcers; the Hubie finale on Super Bowl Sunday 2025 was elegant and exceptional.)”

A lasting legacy

Jones has built a long and versatile career as one of ESPN’s most recognizable play-by-play voices, particularly in college basketball and the NBA. After starting in Canadian broadcasting, Jones joined ESPN in the early 1990s and gradually became a staple of the network’s coverage. He has called a wide range of sports, but is best known for his work on high-profile college basketball games, including the NCAA Tournament, as well as NBA broadcasts. Over time, he developed a distinctive on-air style marked by energy, creativity, and memorable catchphrases, helping him stand out among national broadcasters.

Throughout his career, he has been praised for his ability to blend detailed analysis with entertainment, while also using his platform to speak on social and cultural issues. With decades of experience across multiple sports and major events, Jones remains a respected and influential voice in sports media.

This story was originally published by The Spun on Apr 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports Media section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.