Ernie Johnson announced that he is leaving 'Inside the NBA' after 37 years following this season. Charles Barkley became emotional during Wednesday's ESPN broadcast: 'All I can say, Ernie, is thank you.'
Longtime broadcaster Ernie Johnson announced on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, that the 2026-27 season will be his final year hosting Inside the NBA. The 70-year-old clarified in a social media video that he is not fully retiring, but rather scaling back his current professional duties after leading the iconic studio show since 1990.
During a broadcast following the announcement, co-panelist Charles Barkley fought back tears while offering a heartfelt tribute to his colleague of more than two decades. Fellow panelist Shaquille O'Neal and NBA commissioner Adam Silver also joined in reacting to Johnson's impending departure after 37 years with the program.
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