Charles Barkley and Ernie Johnson plan to retire from Inside the NBA
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 9:45 PM
Last updated Sep 6, 2026

Charles Barkley announced that he intends to retire from the television program Inside the NBA following the conclusion of the upcoming season. Barkley stated that he and host Ernie Johnson are a package deal, noting that Johnson also plans to retire at the end of that same period. The announcement follows a decision by Barkley to fulfill his contract after Warner Bros. Discovery lost broadcast rights to the league and the show prepared to move to ESPN. Shaquille O’Neal, who works alongside Barkley, Johnson, and Kenny Smith, recently emphasized the importance of the group's collaborative dynamic and chemistry. Barkley previously signaled his interest in moving on from his broadcasting career during the summer of 2024 but extended his tenure to help preserve staff jobs. The show has featured the current quartet of analysts and hosts for nearly 15 years.
- •Charles Barkley confirmed the upcoming season will be his last on the show.
- •Ernie Johnson also plans to retire in two years according to Barkley.
- •The pair previously reached an agreement to remain on the program to help protect staff roles.
- •Shaquille O’Neal attributed the success of the show to the chemistry between the four hosts.
- 9:45 PMYahoo Sports — Shaq’s Recent Take On Inside The NBA Is Hitting Me Hard After Charles Barkley’s Retirement News
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