ESPN layoffs 2023: Jeff Van Gundy, Jalen Rose, Suzy Kolber among talent let go amid Disney budget cuts | Sporting News
ESPN has announced a series of layoffs that include several prominent figures in their coverage of the NBA and NFL. The network is letting go of Jeff Van Gundy, a top NBA game analyst who was part of ESPN’s “A team,” along with play-by-play announcer Mike Breen and analyst Mark Jackson. Other notable departures include Suzy Kolber, Keyshawn Johnson, and Todd McShay. Van Gundy, a former head coach of the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets, had been with ESPN since leaving the coaching bench.
ESPN is reportedly considering internal candidates to replace Van Gundy, including Richard Jefferson, Doris Burke, and JJ Redick. Another potential replacement is Doc Rivers, the former coach of the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers.
The layoffs are part of ESPN’s cost-saving measures in response to the challenging financial environment. The parent company, Disney, is aiming to cut spending by $5.5 billion globally. ESPN is looking to reduce costs in various areas, including public-facing commentator salaries, production teams, and public relations.
Van Gundy, known for his coaching success and strong opinions on NBA officiating, had a significant impact on ESPN. The network acknowledges that these decisions are primarily driven by overall efficiency rather than individual merit and are necessary to meet financial targets and ensure future growth.
Overall, the layoffs at ESPN have had a significant impact on the network’s NBA coverage and signal a broader cost-cutting strategy in response to the current economic climate.
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