In a shocking turn of events, ESPN has decided to break up the iconic broadcast team of Mike Breen, Jeff Van Gundy, and Mark Jackson. Breen, who has called 15 NBA Finals alongside Van Gundy and Jackson, expressed his disappointment and sadness over the decision. The trio, known for their insightful commentary and chemistry, were considered synonymous with the sport's biggest event.

Breen expressed his admiration for his former partners, describing them as the "dream partners" who provided everything one would want in analysts. He credited their contributions to his personal success and emphasized the strong bond they share both professionally and personally. Breen expressed gratitude for the time they spent together and acknowledged that their friendship will endure.

ESPN is expected to replace Van Gundy and Jackson with Doris Burke and Doc Rivers. Burke, who currently serves as a sideline reporter, will be promoted to become the first woman calling the NBA Finals. Rivers, who was recently fired as the head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, has previous experience as a broadcaster, having called the NBA Finals in 2004 with Al Michaels.

The decision to end the partnership between Breen, Van Gundy, and Jackson has left many fans and colleagues stunned. The trio's long-standing relationship spans three decades, dating back to their time together with the New York Knicks in the '90s. Breen expressed his admiration for Van Gundy and Jackson, not just for their broadcasting talents, but also for the kind of men they are.

While Breen looks forward to working with Burke and Rivers, he acknowledges that it will be difficult to move on without his former partners. The memories and accomplishments they shared will always hold a special place for Breen, who considers himself privileged to have called the Finals with Van Gundy and Jackson.

ESPN's decision to break up the broadcast team was met with surprise and disappointment from fans and colleagues alike. Van Gundy's potential desire to return to coaching played a role in the network's decision, as executives were wary of him leaving his television job. Van Gundy, who has a successful coaching career and a winning percentage of .575, has long been speculated to eventually return to a coaching role.

Rivers, on the other hand, is highly regarded among NBA executives and has also expressed interest in returning to coaching. His recent dismissal from the Philadelphia 76ers, following three consecutive playoff disappointments, has fueled speculation about his future in coaching.

While ESPN's decision to end the partnership may have been surprising, Breen's admiration for Van Gundy and Jackson has only grown during this difficult time. He commended the way they have handled their dismissals with grace and class. Breen expressed his deep respect for his former partners, not just for their broadcasting talents, but also for the kind of men they are.

As Breen, Burke, and Rivers prepare to embark on a new broadcasting journey together, the legacy of the Breen-Van Gundy-Jackson partnership will never be forgotten. Their contributions to the NBA Finals and their impact on the sport will always be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.