Former NBA coach and media personality Mark Jackson was released by ESPN last summer in surprising fashion. A few rumors were swirling that the ex-player turned coach would have a part-time role for MSG Networks. Something that never came to fruition, but it seems as if Jackson is ready to hop back into the media realm.
Mark Jackson and his son Mark Jackson Jr, also known as Bluu, launched their podcast, The Mark Jackson Show, on the Come and Talk 2 ME Media Network on Monday. This is the same network that owns the “It Is What It Is” podcast, co-hosted by Cam’ron and Ma$e. On Monday, Jackson shared his journey and discussed his transition to this point in a vulnerable conversation, partnering with Come and Talk 2 Me Channel.
He talked about how adamant Cam was in recruiting him to the network and how it meant a lot to him also to control his own narrative.
“What also happened was two legends out of New York City, two guys from Harlem, you never know who you’re impacting, and when I got fired they took my firing personally and they basically had a vision and they proposed that vision to me, two guys by the name of Cam and Ma$e, who’s making a historic run with It Is What It Is changing the game of how we cover sports,” Jackson told his son Bluu. “I’m honored to call them friends and family,” Jackson added.
When asked what we should expect from the show, Jackson was candid in his response about what fans could look forward to with him within the digital space now.
“A show that breaks down basketball, basketball games, and basketball issues,” Jackson said. “Going to be sharp and on point with the analytical side, analysis of playoff games, individuals, and teams. While dealing with expert issues and hot topics.”
Mark, being the old-school respected pioneer in the NBA and the media space, also mentioned that this show would not be here to start issues or create any controversy.
“What we’re not going to be is controversial,” the former Golden State Warriors Coach mentioned. “We’re not going to back away from the big-time topics or the big-time issues, but we not gon’ start no mess. We are not going to tolerate starting mess or continuing mess. We want to bring good news, hot topics, and have fun with it.”
Jackson also mentioned that he could be critical of the referees without having to worry about getting a call from the higher-ups at ESPN.
In leaving the corporate world, they found a refreshing change of scenery. Episode one of The Mark Jackson Show displayed an authentic representation of Jackson’s personality and provided a unique opportunity for viewers to get to know him on a personal level. The chemistry between the host and guests was also noteworthy.
Check out the first episode below, streaming on YouTube.
