ESPN has laid off NBA Senior Writer Zach Lowe, The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand reported this morning. ESPN made the decision as part of the network’s continuing layoffs, according to the report [subscription required].

Lowe’s salary, which was in excess of seven figures annually, was the biggest factor in ESPN’s decision, according to sources briefed on the terms of his contract.

Lowe had worked at ESPN for 12 years, beginning in 2012 at Grantland, the network’s longform site. Over the years, Lowe wrote for the network and made appearances on various TV programs. Lowe wrote the regular column, “Lowe’s Things,” in which he went over things from around the NBA he liked and disliked — a personal favorite of this writer. He also hosted “The Lowe Post Podcast.”

From an NBA fan perspective, this is disappointing news, depending on where Lowe ends up. As a national writer, Lowe provided some of the most informed and detailed coverage about NBA teams from all markets, including the Portland Trail Blazers.