Mark Jackson Reported Frontrunner For Kings’ Coaching Vacancy

ESPN analyst Mark Jackson appears to be the frontrunner for the Kings’ coaching job, according to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report.

Jackson is one of three finalists, along with Warriors assistant Mike Brown and former Hornets and Magic coach Steve Clifford, as we relayed earlier in the week.

Jackson appears to be the favorite for Kings owner Vivek Ranadive, Fischer reported.

“The Kings concluded their second-round discussions with Clifford in Sacramento on Monday,” Fischer wrote. “Next in line will be Jackson and then Brown, who is amid Golden State’s second-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies. After an initial list of seven candidates, Kings officials have maintained their three finalists each hold a level chance of securing the post. A decision could come as soon as next week.”

Jackson is also said to be under consideration for the coaching openings with the Lakers and Hornets.

Prior to becoming a top in-game analyst with ESPN’s and ABC’s coverage of the NBA, Jackson coached the Warriors from 2011-14. He compiled a 121-109 record in that span.

He has been with ESPN/ABC since, providing commentary on the networks’ biggest games, typically pairing with play-by-play man Mike Breen and fellow analyst Jeff Van Gundy.