Barkley, a member of the immensely popular, award-winning “Inside the NBA” studio program, said Friday night that the 2024โ25 seasons would be his last with TNT and that he would not be joining any other network after that.
“I ain’t going anywhere other than TNT,” Barkley, 61, told NBATV after the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Boston Celtics in Game 4 on Friday night. “But I’ve decided that, regardless of what happens, next year will be my last on television. To my NBA family, I just want to express my gratitude. You’ve been wonderful to me. I am overwhelmed with happiness and appreciation.
In preparation for the 2025โ26 seasons, the NBA has been in talks with potential media rights holders. While the NBA has not published the terms of the agreements, Disney/ABC/ESPN, Amazon, NBC, and Warner Bros. Discovery are reportedly competing for three potential bundles of games and linked content totaling an estimated $76 billion to the league over a decade.
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If Warner Bros. Discovery is the odd media business out, it would signal the end of TNT games and “Inside the NBA.”
“I hope the NBA remains with TNT, but I wanted you to hear it directly from me… I wanted to assure my NBATV and TNT family that I am not leaving, but I will give the torch to Jamal Crawford, Vince Carter, or you, Steve [Smith],” Barkley stated.
I wanted to take a moment to thank you, but I’m retiring next year after 25 years. And I wanted you to hear it from me first.
Before the NBA Finals, Commissioner Adam Silver described the media rights process as “incredibly complex” because of the technologies involved (broadcast, cable, and streaming), the competing bids, and a schedule that extends into an undetermined future.
When asked about the likely termination of the Sports Emmy Award-winning “Inside the NBA,” with presenter Ernie Johnson and former players Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Barkley, if WBD’s contract with the league expires next spring, Silver expressed sympathy for the situation.
“To the folks at Turner Sports, I apologize that this has been a prolonged process because I know they’re committed to their jobs,” he said. “It’s an important part of their identity and their family’s identity, and no one enjoys being unclear. I believe it is the league office’s responsibility to bring these discussions to a conclusion as soon as possible.”
TNT Sports described Barkley as a “broadcasting icon” and “beloved member of the TNT Sports family.” “We’re looking forward to another fantastic NBA on TNT season and further discussion of our plans with him,” TNT Sports said.
