Home / Sports / Barkley Confirms Next NBA Season Is His Last
Barkley Confirms Next NBA Season Is His Last
5 Sep
Summary
- Charles Barkley stated next season is his final year on NBA on TNT.
- Barkley's commitment is tied to host Ernie Johnson's request.
- He previously considered leaving when TNT lost NBA media rights.
NBA on TNT analyst Charles Barkley has announced that the next season will mark his final year on the popular show 'Inside the NBA.' This decision was prompted by a direct request from host Ernie Johnson, who asked Barkley to commit to two more years before the last season began.
Barkley revealed on Bill Simmons' podcast that he told Johnson, "I'll stay," indicating his retirement is set unless Johnson alters his plans. The sports icon had previously considered stepping away from broadcasting, especially after TNT did not secure a new media rights deal with the NBA.
Despite the network's loss in the media rights bidding, Barkley expressed his strong affection for TNT and a desire to support its employees. The show, which remains based in Atlanta, aired on ESPN last season, but Barkley's confirmed departure signals a significant shift for the award-winning program.
