Richard Jefferson’s Comeback
Richard Jefferson, at 45 years old, is reportedly set to make a comeback with ABC/ESPN, primarily focusing on his role in NBA Finals broadcasts alongside Mike Breen. Although he has yet to finalize a contract, sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that an agreement is in place.
Doris Burke’s Uncertain Future
Meanwhile, the future of Doris Burke at the network remains uncertain. After a successful season last year, where he was part of the network’s number one broadcasting team, Jefferson’s return follows a brief period of speculation about his potential move to Amazon Prime Video, which will begin broadcasting NBA games this fall. ESPN has declined to provide any commentary on Jefferson’s re-engagement or Burke’s unclear position.
Burke, a Hall of Famer who has long been recognized for her contributions to the sport, has seen her status on the top team come under scrutiny after ESPN made significant changes during the summer of 2023, which included the firing of lead analysts Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson. Although she was paired with Breen and former NBA coach Doc Rivers, Rivers has since returned to coaching with the Milwaukee Bucks and JJ Redick has succeeded him in the booth. However, with Redick’s recent hiring as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers following the 2024 NBA Finals, Burke’s future remains in limbo.
Potential Changes and Support for Burke
Tim Legler has emerged as a frontrunner should ESPN decide to fill her position, although the network might also consider moving to a two-person commentary arrangement. The dialogue around Burke’s future gained traction prior to the Finals, with notable figures like Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle publicly expressing their support for her. In a display of solidarity, Jefferson attended the Women’s College World Series, echoing the sentiment with a T-shirt that proclaimed,
“My Favorite Broadcaster is Doris Burke.”
Upcoming Season Changes
As the next season approaches, ESPN will reduce its regular-season game coverage by 20 matches, which could facilitate a greater reliance on its top-tier announcing teams. Breen, along with alternate play-by-play commentators Dave Pasch, Ryan Ruocco, and Mark Jones, will continue to lead broadcasts, with Jefferson, Burke, Legler, and Jay Bilas serving as principal analysts for the network.
