Is Mark Jones retiring? Why sportscaster is leaving ESPN after 36 years

Is Mark Jones retiring? Why sportscaster is leaving ESPN after 36 years originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

ESPN broadcasts will sound a lot different in the months and years to come.

Veteran broadcaster Mark Jones is stepping away from the Worldwide Leader in Sports, ending his 36-year term with the corporation. The Toronto native emerged as one of the standout voices in a generation filled with them, enchanting millions with his wit and smooth delivery.

Jones got a chance to bask in the glow of an ESPN tenure well-served on Sunday, fielding compliments from some of the industry's biggest names. Suffice to say, the sports media world took notice.

With that, here's what you need to know about Jones' ESPN exit, as well as what could be next on store for the iconic broadcaster.

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Is Mark Jones retiring?

Jones is not retiring. He is, however, leaving ESPN after 36 years with the company.

“It’s been a memorable journey these decades with the ABC/ESPN family, but I have decided that it’s time to move on,” Jones wrote on Instagram on April 10.

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“As I move on to my next chapter I believe my best work is yet to come,” he continued. “I’ll be out there cookin’ hotter than fish grease!”

Jones' last day with his longtime employers came on April 12. Jones' booming voice soundtracked the Celtics and Magic's contest.

Jones has worn plenty of hats while working for ESPN, serving as a play-by-play commentator for NBA, collegiate and UFL coverage.

It's unclear quite what is next for Jones. The 64-year-old figures to command plenty of interest when he hits the open market. One thing is certain, though: his famous voice will be backing Kings games in 2026-27. Jones has served as Sacramento's lead play-by-play man since 2020. He has no plans of relinquishing that responsibility any time soon.

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“My plan is to be here for a long, long time,” Jones said on April 10, according to the Sacramento Bee. “I love it here and I’ve been warmly received by the Kings.”

Why is Mark Jones leaving ESPN?

Jones told the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson that his departure is of his own volition. He explained that he felt it was time to start a new challenge. Per Jackson, ESPN offered him the opportunity to stay if he so desired. However, he wanted an exit.

“Mark has made an enduring impact at ESPN since 1990, serving as a signature voice primarily within our NBA and college football coverage and across nearly all of our platforms," ESPN told Awful Announcing in a statement. "We’re grateful for Mark’s countless contributions, and we wish him continued success.”

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How old is Mark Jones?

Jones is 64 years old. He'll turn 65 on Nov. 16.

Mark Jones tributes

Jones was the subject of myriad tributes on Sunday. Doris Burke offered a particularly memorable ballad for her longtime cast-mate, prompting tears from both sports broadcasting titans.

Jones also appeared on "Inside the NBA", giving the famous foursome a chance to celebrate Jones' impressive accomplishments.

Jones finished his final ESPN broadcast in style, regaling Luka Garza after he sank a triple to lift Boston to victory over Orlando.

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Here's a look at some other Jones tributes that flooded social media on Sunday night.