TNT’s Charles Barkley announces retirement from broadcasting after 2024-25 season

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Over the past two decades, many would say the best, most popular, and most beloved sports show in America was Inside the NBA on TNT. Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal have undeniable chemistry and never fail to provide both great analysis and great entertainment every time they are on camera.

Unfortunately for basketball fans everywhere, it appears that this show’s run is coming to an end. The NBA is close to finalizing a new television rights deal, which Turner Sports may not be a part of, meaning that unless another network picks up the broadcast, next season will be its last of the popular program.

It’s always possible that a network could do it, but even if it does, it won’t be the same since Barkley has announced that next season, no matter what happens, will be his last as a broadcaster, via Horrible announcement:

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🚨 Charles Barkley: “I’m not going anywhere other than TNT. But I’ve made the decision myself: no matter what happens, next year will be my last year on television… I’m not going to another channel… Next year I will retire after 25 years.” 🚨 pic.twitter.com/E966rKo7X4

– Awful Announcement (@awfulannouncing) June 15, 2024

Barkley has become one of the biggest figures in all of sports media because of his lack of filter and willingness to say what he feels, where many others would retreat. Barkley is arguably the biggest reason why Inside the NBA has gained popularity so quickly and his back and forth with Smith and especially Shaq is absolutely hilarious.

Even if Inside the NBA were to be picked up by another network, it just wouldn’t be the same without Barkley in the office. If next season truly is Barkley’s last on the air, then everyone would do well to enjoy and appreciate what he and the rest of the team have brought to fans for over two decades.

Shaquille O’Neal pays tribute to NBA and Lakers legend Jerry West

Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and many other NBA legends were deeply hurt by the recent passing of the legendary Jerry West. O’Neal had a very close relationship with West, who met the big man and convinced him to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996.

O’Neal paid tribute to West on Instagram, saying he knew his life was forever changed after the first time he met West, while adding that he deserved to be the NBA’s logo for always and thanking him for everything he had done for so many people. on and off the field.

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