Ernie Johnson, the voice we’ve known for decades, just dropped a bombshell: the 2026-27 season is going to be his last run with “Inside the NBA.” The longtime analyst shared the news on social media Wednesday, October 28, before opening that night’s show solo to personally deliver the message to everyone watching.
Ernie Johnson Is Calling It A Career After 37 Years
This isn’t just some casual announcement, folks. Johnson has been hosting “Inside the NBA” for an incredible 37 years. He called it a “get to” job, still amazed he gets to do it for a living. After turning 70 this past summer, Johnson explained it’s “totally my decision. It’s just time.” Think about that, 37 years! That’s almost four decades of passion, insight, and pure love for the game beaming into our homes. He’s been a fixture, a constant, and frankly, a legend. It’s tough to imagine those nights without him.
Barkley’s Tears Tell The Whole Story
You know it’s a big deal when Charles Barkley, the always-candid Hall of Famer, can’t hold back. The source article’s headline says it all: Barkley teared up on air alongside his “Inside the NBA” co-hosts as they paid tribute to Johnson. When Chuck gets emotional, you know the gravity of the situation is real. This isn’t just a colleague leaving; it’s the end of an era for a group that’s more family than co-workers. Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley have been clowing around and breaking down the NBA since at least 2007. Johnson was even with Kobe Bryant after Lakers playoff wins in 2008. The images of Johnson with Barkley, Smith, and even Shaquille O’Neal and Chris Weber over the years show a bond that goes deep. Seeing Barkley get choked up just shows how much Johnson means to not only them but to the entire NBA community.
This season, the 2026-27 campaign, is our last chance to soak in every moment with Ernie Johnson leading the crew. It’s going to be emotional, folks. Every show from here on out is a chance to celebrate the career of a true broadcasting icon.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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