The NBA is gearing up for its next round of media rights deals, and the future of the beloved “Inside the NBA” crew hangs in the balance. With TNT’s parent company, Warner Bros., potentially losing the broadcast rights they’ve held since 1989, fans are bracing for significant changes.
NBC’s Potential Takeover
NBC is reportedly preparing to make a substantial $2.5 billion offer for the NBA broadcasting rights, a move that could edge out TNT. According to Bill Simmons of The Ringer, NBC is set to take over NBA broadcasting duties from TNT once the new media rights agreement is finalized. This shift could mark the end of an era for the iconic “Inside the NBA” team.
The Future of “Inside the NBA”
With NBC’s potential takeover, questions arise about the future of Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson. The beloved crew, known for their camaraderie and insightful analysis, might not grace our screens starting from the 2025-26 season.
During a recent appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Charles Barkley hinted at the possibility of becoming a free agent if TNT loses the NBA. However, uncertainties remain regarding the contract statuses of Smith and O’Neal.
Barkley emphasized the critical role of Ernie Johnson in their dynamic, saying, “I don’t know how it works without Ernie. And I can’t speak for NBC. I don’t know if they’d want all three of us. Our show won’t be the same without Ernie. Ernie is the most important person on our show.”
Angel Reese with her first WNBA career dunk 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/RGyBJpdDNS
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) May 16, 2024
Ernie Johnson’s Legacy
Ernie Johnson, the stalwart lead host of TNT’s NBA coverage for 35 years, reportedly intends to stay with the network. His presence has been a cornerstone of “Inside the NBA,” and his departure could significantly impact the show’s future.
Chad Finn of Boston.com expressed doubts about the crew sticking together for another network if Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and TNT lose the NBA. He stated, “Essentially, if WBD doesn’t keep the NBA, a studio show unlike any other will disappear.”
An Award-Winning Legacy
“Inside the NBA” has consistently ranked among the best sports analysis shows on American TV, winning eighteen Sports Emmy Awards throughout its history. The show’s unique blend of humor, in-depth analysis, and genuine camaraderie has made it a fan favorite. The potential breakup of this iconic team would mark the end of an era in sports broadcasting.
Looking Forward
As the NBA prepares for its new media rights deals, the fate of “Inside the NBA” remains uncertain. With NBC’s potential takeover, fans are left wondering about the future of Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson. One thing is clear: the show’s legacy will endure, no matter what the future holds.
