Jalen Rose set for dramatic ESPN return three years after he was cut from NBA coverage

FORMER NBA star Jalen Rose is set for a surprise return to ESPN.

The ex-Denver Nuggets star was let go from the network in a brutal round of cuts in 2023.

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Jalen Rose is back on ESPN this Friday as a replacement for ShaqCredit: Getty

The former NBA star was let go by the network in a series of cuts in 2023Credit: Getty

Rose began a career in broadcasting after retiring from basketball in 2007.

He worked as an analyst on ESPN for over a decade before his unexpected firing.

Reports suggest Rose could now be set for a return – at least on a temporary basis.

Rose “will be back on ESPN Friday night as part of the TNT-produced NBA studio coverage”, according to Sports Media Watch.

The 53-year-old is filling in for the absent Shaquille O’Neal on the show.

The report added that Shaq will return for Saturday and Sunday’s edition of Inside the NBA.

“Happy to see my boy back, even if it’s temporary,” wrote one viewer on X.

“Thought he was so much better filling in with the TNT crew than he ever was on ESPN,” said another.

“Love him or hate him, TV is always better when Jalen’s on it,” added a third.

Rose was hired by TNT Sports in 2024 appear on its studio coverage of Big 12 men’s basketball. 

During his college career, Rose starred for Michigan’s Fab Five in the 1990s.

Over three years, Rose played in 102 games for Michigan, averaging 17.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists.

The guard went on to enjoy a lengthy NBA career, playing for six different teams over a 13-year period.

Rose averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 assists and 3.5 rebounds over 923 total career games.

He now contributes to Big Ten men’s basketball coverage for NBC and Peacock.

Rose spent 13 years in the NBA and played for six teams, including the Denver NuggetsCredit: Reuters