NBA assists record holder at retirement — legendary commentary career followed a consistent 17-year playing career.
Mark Anthony Jackson was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1965. New York Knicks selected him 18th overall in the 1987 NBA Draft. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 1988 after averaging 13.6 points and 10.6 assists per game. His 17-season career produced 9.6 points and 8.0 assists per game and one All-Star appearance. He accumulated 10,334 career assists — the third-highest total in NBA history behind John Stockton and Jason Kidd at the time of his retirement. He played for 10 different franchises across his career. He reached the Eastern Conference Finals with the Indiana Pacers in 1998 and 2000 alongside Reggie Miller and Jalen Rose. After his playing career he became one of basketball's most recognised television commentators — working for ESPN and ABC as a colour analyst — before becoming head coach of the Golden State Warriors from 2011 to 2014, establishing the culture that Steve Kerr later used to win four championships. His catch phrase and his distinctive commentary style made him one of the sport's most recognisable media voices.
Elite point guard with exceptional court vision and leadership
How They Played
Traditional floor general with excellent passing, leadership, and basketball IQ
Lasting Impact
One of NBA's all-time assist leaders, successful coach after retirement
Rookie of the Year (1988)
Career Honours
- Rookie of the Year (1988)
- All-Star 1x