When MSG Network needed a voice to fill in for their New York Knicks broadcasts last November, they knew exactly who to rope in. Enter a familiar and comforting voice: Jamal Crawford. The three-time Sixth Man of the Year stepped in as the color commentator, temporarily replacing the legendary Walt “Clyde” Frazier. And just as Crawford made his broadcasting debut on November 21, calling the Knicks’ road game against the Phoenix Suns, now, nearly five months later, it was time to bid adieu. As the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end.”
And just like that, despite many fans’ pleas, on March 13, Crawford called his final game for MSG as the Knicks faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers. The Knicks edged out a nail-biting 114-113 win, but the usual post-game excitement had a bittersweet tone; that was Crawford’s last night in the booth. As the broadcast wrapped up, Mike Breen took a moment to appreciate Crawford’s contributions, thanking him for his time and insight. And Crawford? He made sure to return the love. Later taking to Instagram, he gave Breen his well-earned flowers and showed his gratitude for MSG.
Crawford’s reunion with the New York Knicks felt like destiny – a full-circle moment that was imminent. But this time, he was breaking down plays with a microphone in hand instead of breaking ankles. His smooth analysis, deep love for the game, and natural charisma made his stint nothing short of special, brief though it may have been. But now, unfortunately, the ride is over. To mark the occasion, Crawford shared two photos of himself and Mike Breen courtside, delivering in-depth game insights. And man, those images hit fans right in the feels. To say nothing about the caption, which got everyone in the feels with its emotional weight: “If I’m being honest, every time I was on with Mike Breen, I said to myself- “this is how it must have been for a young up and coming actor to work with Denzel, or Pacino.”
Now that’s huge praise coming from a guy who’s been around legends his whole life. But then again, when you’re working with someone who’s spent more than two decades calling the biggest moments in NBA history, it’s easy to see why. Crawford continued, “l learned so much from a GIANT in this business. He told me things I’ll keep with me as I run my own race, trying to be as good as I can in this space.” For someone stepping into a new profession, being mentored by Mike Breen is like getting pointers from the GOAT himself and Crawford’s appreciation for the guidance was evident in the way he reflected on their shared time.
Finally, he pondered on what he’ll miss the most: the adrenaline of the historic MSG and the love from the fans. “My Last game was last night, thank you for the opportunity MSG. A heartfelt sign-off from a player-turned-broadcaster who left his imprint on both the court and the booth. His time at MSG may be over (for now), but his impact? That’ll stick around for a while.
Speaking of impact, do you know that this isn’t the last we’ll be seeing of Jamal Crawford? Turns out, he’s got a packed schedule lined up – what with another gig ready and rearing to go right away!
“One Chapter Ends, Another Begins”: Jamal Crawford’s next move after his emotional MSG farewell
If you’re a Jamal Crawford fan and wondering what’s next, don’t worry, he’s already got it all figured out. Crawford is taking his talents to NBC Sports, where he will serve as a lead game analyst once the network’s NBA coverage kicks off in October 2025 across NBC and Peacock. Now, let’s hear it straight from the man himself.
“I’m thrilled to join the NBC Sports family and their new NBA package,” Jamal said. He added, “NBC Sports’ productions are top-notch across the board, and I can’t wait for hoop fans to see what we have in store for the new era of basketball content.” Crawford’s excitement is fair enough. NBC Sports was once home to the NBA’s golden era of broadcasting, with iconic moments narrated by legendary voices. Now, he gets to be part of the network’s new basketball revival.
NBC Sports’ Executive Producer Sam Flood echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing why Crawford is the perfect fit. “As one of the best sixth men in NBA history, he (Jamal Crawford) mastered the art of reading the flow of the game before stepping on the court, a skill that will make an exciting transition to his new courtside seat. We’re thrilled to have him in the starting lineup for Team NBC.”
Just like he did during his playing career, Crawford will bring the same instinct, charisma, and basketball IQ to his new role. One chapter may have closed at MSG, but a bigger stage now awaits him. And we think he’s more than ready for the moment. What are your thoughts on Jamal Crawford’s new horizons?
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