ESPN has lost its own programming after a two-year battle with cancer, the network announced Monday on “SportsCenter.”
Research manager Zach Jones tragically passed away at the age of 41 after a battle with colorectal cancer.
Jones spent 15 years at ESPN starting in 2010 and moved to the statistics team in 2018.
“SportsCenter” anchor Randy Scott paid tribute to Jones on air in a touching moment.
“You may not have seen him on screen, but you've seen his work. Either on a live golf game, a women's basketball game, or a 'SportsCenter' show. “He came here as a researcher in 2010 and joined the Statistics Group management team in 2018,” Scott said.
“But more importantly, he got married here. He started his family here. The Stanford graduate loved the Cardinals and loved golf. He He loved Amber and his son Silas, who turned 10 last month, lost his father just a few weeks before he met Zach in the cafeteria. was hopeful, but also reflective.
“He said he just wanted his family to be safe after recently moving to Texas. He fought so hard. He will now rest. We love you, buddy. Zach Jones was 41 years old.
Kevin Negundy also paid tribute to Jones in a social media post.
“Rest in peace, Zack.” Negandi wrote. “A devoted father who loved golf, the Chargers and his family. He was a great researcher and had an attitude that was perfect for television. He will be missed by many. We Sending all my love to his wife, son, and their family. Fuck cancer.”
“Baseball Tonight” Producer Greg Coli also paid his respects. Sent to Jones in the X post.
“Zach was the best. The original fantasy football researcher who did an incredible amount of work without a single complaint and a smile on his face. He was the nicest human being. Cancer sucks!” Colli wrote.
