Consistency in an ever-changing television and media landscape is a rather rare, sometimes novel idea in this day and age.
One individual who bucks that notion is ESPN NBA analyst Jeff Van Gundy.
The popular analyst is calling his record 10th NBA Finals – the most for a TV analyst. In fact, he’s part of the longest-tenured NBA Finals broadcast team ever.
The combination of Van Gundy, Mark Jackson, Mike Breen – who holds the play-by-play record for the Finals – and reporter Doris Burke have called seven Finals together.
- His first NBA Finals – 2007: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. San Antonio Spurs
- He has called all seven of LeBron James’ NBA Finals appearances, including the past six straight.
- 2009 NBA Finals: He calls the series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic, of whom his brother Stan Van Gundy was the coach.
- 2015 NBA Finals: He calls the most-watched NBA Finals in ABC history between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Van Gundy’s teammates, along with long-time producer, ESPN Senior Coordinating Producer, NBA Tim Corrigan, shared their thoughts on Van Gundy’s television legacy and more.
Tim Corrigan: “Jeff’s unpredictable mix of expert analysis, opinion and humor set him apart as an analyst. Nobody cares more to see that the game is played the right way and he holds those who play, coach and officiate to a very high standard.”
Mike Breen: “I think Jeff is one of the most unique analysts who has ever done this. He makes you think, he makes you laugh and he makes you smarter about basketball. For a play-by-play announcer, it doesn’t get any better. I laugh and learn every telecast. I can throw any topic at him and he’ll have an opinion. He’s so good I don’t even mind when he yells at me on the air!”
Mark Jackson: “Jeff delivers authenticity in the booth. He doesn’t pull any punches, he’s unafraid to speak his mind and I think that has earned him the trust and respect of the viewers over the past 10 years. From a personal standpoint, he’s my guy! I’ve always valued these years on the road together. He is the best!”
Doris Burke: “Jeff’s ability to address game strategy and league issues too is second to none. His experience as a well-respected NBA coach gives great weight to all that he says. But, he also has a terrific feel for when a window opens to allow the viewer to have some fun.”
