Changes in ESPN’s NBA Finals Commentary Team
Historically, ESPN’s coverage of The NBA Finals featured a cohesive trio: play-by-play announcer Mike Breen, analyst Jeff Van Gundy, and former player Mark Jackson. Breen was known for his enthusiastic calls, particularly for standout moments, while Van Gundy provided keen insights as an experienced coach, and Jackson offered a player’s perspective with memorable catchphrases. Together, they created a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.
However, in a controversial decision during the summer budget cuts of 2023, ESPN opted to release Van Gundy and Jackson, a move that puzzled many at the time and still does. With the Finals approaching again, the focus shifts to Breen, who will be joined by newcomers Doris Burke and Richard Jefferson for their first Finals together as a team.
This year’s Finals feature the Oklahoma City Thunder facing off against the Indiana Pacers, but it remains uncertain whether this trio will remain intact for future seasons. While ESPN plans to re-sign Jefferson, his contract is still pending, and there’s some interest from Amazon Prime Video. Burke’s position is likewise not guaranteed, though Breen, who has a long-term contract, is secure.
ESPN executives are assessing their commentary team, questioning whether Burke performs better in a two-person booth rather than a trio. In a season with various analysts like Tim Legler, Jay Bilas, and Cory Alexander, this new setup puts Breen in a position where he needs to recreate the dynamic he had with his former partners, Van Gundy and Jackson. Despite being one of the best play-by-play announcers, Breen has struggled to elevate his new analysts, leading to a less cohesive presentation.
ESPN’s recent decisions have raised eyebrows, especially with the firings of Van Gundy and Jackson. Although the NBA had some issues with Van Gundy’s critical remarks about officials, the league never mandated his dismissal. ESPN later let him go partly due to his desire to return to coaching, yet he continued to be a valuable on-air presence. Meanwhile, Rivers and Redick, both of whom left ESPN for coaching roles shortly after their promotions, did not fulfill their potential at the network.
While Jefferson shows promise and enthusiasm for his role, ESPN should have prioritized him from the start instead of rushing to fill vacancies. Last season, having Redick and Jefferson compete in a trial format could have yielded better results. Burke, noted for her own accomplishments, has yet to establish synergy with Breen, leading to missed opportunities for collaborative commentary.
As ESPN heads into the Finals with Breen, Burke, and Jefferson, they are still working out their on-air chemistry. The Finals may not be the ideal setting for learning, but overcoming these challenges will be key for the trio moving forward.
