Ernie Johnson has announced that the 2026–27 season will be his last as host of Inside the NBA, bringing his tenure to an end after 37 seasons. In a social media video lasting nearly three minutes, the 70-year-old stressed that the decision was entirely his own.
A long-established part of NBA coverage since its debut in 1989, the programme features Johnson alongside Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith. It provides coverage before and after games. Reflecting on their decades together, Johnson expressed affection for his colleagues and appreciation for their shared work.
His departure from the programme does not amount to full retirement. Instead, Johnson intends to scale back his workload while retaining his role in TNT and CBS Sports' March Madness coverage and pursuing other projects for both broadcasters. He has also launched a production company, 32 Bowties, dedicated to uplifting sports stories.
The announcement also puts Barkley's future on the programme in focus. During an appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Barkley said he had agreed to remain for two additional years at Johnson's request. He indicated that this season would likewise be his last unless Johnson reconsidered and stayed beyond it, explicitly linking his own departure to that of his fellow presenter.
