Ernie Johnson to end 37-year run on Inside the NBA this season

Ernie Johnson will leave the broadcast desk for Inside the NBA at the end of the current season. The 70-year-old host announced the decision on Wednesday, bringing a close to a 37-year tenure that established him as a central figure in professional basketball television.

Johnson’s career on the show began in 1990 on TNT and TBS. The program moved to ESPN last year. Kenny Smith joined the panel full-time in 1998. Charles Barkley was added in 2000, and Shaquille O’Neal joined the team in 2011.

The decision to retire stems from the physical and mental demands of his daily routine. Johnson explained that the extensive preparation required for every broadcast had become a burden rather than a joy. He stated that he had long vowed to step away once the homework outweighed the enjoyment of the work.

“Total honesty here. I’ve always prided myself on my preparation. The hours I put in every day, getting ready for the next show. I’ve always loved that part of my job. But I’ve always vowed that if that ever became more of a challenge than it is a joy, then I’ll know it’s time to step away,” Johnson said.

Health issues have also played a role in the timing of his exit. Johnson has fought heart disease for at least two years and underwent bypass surgery 14 months ago. He was previously diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2003 and prostate cancer in 2019.

Barkley’s future on the broadcast team is now uncertain. The 63-year-old former player has described himself and Johnson as a package deal. Barkley appeared emotional while speaking on ESPN’s NBA Tip Off, noting that he has worked alongside Johnson for 26 or 27 years.

“That was tough. We knew the day was coming, still tough. (I’ve) been here for 26, 27 years and it’s been an honor and privilege to work with you all this time,” Barkley said. He noted that fans frequently ask him if Johnson is as good a person as he appears on television. Barkley answered that Johnson is better than that.