Magic Johnson is leaving ESPN's NBA Countdown show the network revealed in a formal news release on Thursday.
Johnson, an NBA Hall of Famer and current Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner, reportedly informed network officials earlier this week that he would not be returning to the show this upcoming NBA season.
"Earvin "Magic" Johnson informed us today that he'll no longer be part of our NBA coverage due to his other commitments," said John Wildhack, ESPN Executive Vice President, Production. "We appreciate Magic's contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors. We are in the process of determining our NBA commentator roles for the upcoming season."
In a statement, Johnson added : "I love ESPN. Unfortunately, due to the nature of my schedule and other commitments, I don't feel confident that I can continue to devote the time needed to thrive in my role. I will always feel a strong connection to the ESPN family."
Earlier this summer, ESPN also announced that Michael Wilbon will also be taking a lesser role on the show this season so that he can return to focusing on the station's Pardon the Interruption Show with Tony Kornheiser.
Some have speculated former Philadelphia 76ers coach Doug Collins is the leading candidate to replace Wilbon.
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