He knows that Jackson has his critics both as a man and as a leader. Smith noted that there have been less accomplished coaches that landed a second job. He not only built the foundation of the dynasty that would secure four titles for the team and his successor, Steve Kerr, but he was undeniably successful, making the playoffs two of his three seasons and finishing with an overall winning record. Smith’s concerns stem from the way Jackson has been treated by the NBA following his three-year stint as head coach of the Golden State Warriors. I believe he’s an elite basketball analyst who definitely should land on his feet, but the reason I’m sad is because I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t concerned as to whether or not you get the opportunity to do so.” Smith says if that is what Jackson wants to do, he should be able to. Whether or not Van Gundy and/or Jackson plan to stay in the broadcasting field is unknown. He just saw a lot of people suggesting that following Van Gundy’s dismissal, ESPN could blow up the entire booth. When he says he was not surprised, it was not a comment on their work.

He has respect for both of them as analysts.

He added that he is close with both Jackson and Van Gundy. “I’m incredibly sad that he was let go, but I wasn’t surprised once I started reading the reports.” “Mark Jackson is a brilliant basketball mind, an accomplished player, an elite and cerebral point guard, and an even better man,” Smith said. Smith addressed the changes on his podcast this week and said Jackson, in particular, deserved better. Plenty has been said and written about the team of Mike Breen, Mark Jackson, and Jeff Van Gundy following the two analysts being laid off by ESPN in recent months.

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