ESPN layoffs include Jeff Van Gundy, Suzy Kolber: What we know

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ESPN layoffs include Jeff Van Gundy, Suzy Kolber: What we know

NBA studio analyst Jalen Rose is also part of ESPN's cuts as Disney slashes spending worldwide.

The normal ESPN cutbacks have hit its NFL inclusion particularly hard, alongside critical takeoffs in the NBA space.

As per the New York Post, the organization is relinquishing top NBA game expert Jeff Van Gundy, part of the organization's "A group" close by in depth host Mike Breen and individual examiner Imprint Jackson.

Multiple reports claim that the network has also laid off Suzy Kolber, Keyshawn Johnson, and Todd McShay.

Since leaving the bench, Van Gundy, a former Houston Rockets and New York Knicks head coach from 2003 to 2007, had worked for ESPN. He developed a reputation for being disgusted with NBA officials, but he also communicated the decisions and responsibilities of coaches clearly and effectively.

ESPN is looking into internal candidates to replace Van Gundy, who was making millions of dollars per year, according to the Post. Richard Jefferson, Doris Burke and JJ Redick are choices, per the report. Doc Rivers, a former coach for the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Boston Celtics, is another candidate for Van Gundy's replacement.

As per an inside reminder got by numerous media sources Friday, ESPN is going through "a little gathering of occupation stops in the term and a continuous spotlight on overseeing costs when we arrange individual agreement reestablishments in the months to come."

"Given the ongoing climate, ESPN has decided it important to recognize a few extra expense reserve funds in the space of public-confronting reporter compensations, and that cycle has started," the organization said in a proclamation. " Short-term job cuts will be part of this exercise, as will an ongoing focus on cost management when we negotiate individual contract renewals in the months to come. This is a very difficult process that involves people whose actions have had a significant impact on our business. We will be able to meet our financial goals and ensure future growth by making these difficult decisions, which are more based on overall efficiency than merit.

ESPN looked at every part of its business as part of Disney's cost-cutting measures, which would cut spending by $5.5 billion worldwide. There were layoffs in the public relations and production teams as well as more front-facing talent.

Van Gundy, 61, was 430-318 as a NBA lead trainer and aided the Knicks to the 1999 NBA Finals as the first No. 8 seed to accomplish this. He worked as an assistant for the Knicks under Stu Jackson and Pat Riley beginning in 1989 and continuing until he succeeded Don Nelson as head coach.