The future of "Inside the NBA" remains uncertain

Reel Perspectives

May 23, 2024

Courtesy: TNT

In our current culture, Shaq, Chuck, Kenny, and EJ are four names synonymous with basketball. Known for their unfiltered opinions and colorful commentary on everything basketball-related, "Inside the NBA" (presented by KIA) is arguably the most popular, if not influential, post-analysis show related to basketball.

The iconic show "Inside the NBA" made its debut after TNT secured the rights to broadcast NBA games in the 1989–90 season. Ernie Johnson Jr., previously a sideline reporter, assumed the role of the show's full-time host for TNT's comprehensive NBA coverage, including pregame and halftime shows, as well as the network's renowned postgame studio show, "Inside the NBA." Johnson is accompanied by three other panelists and former basketball players. Kenny Smith became a full-time member in 1998, while NBA All-Star Charles Barkley joined TNT in 2000, gaining notoriety for his candid and controversial statements on the air. Shaquille O'Neal joined as a studio analyst during the 2011–12 season. The show consistently garnered acclaim as one of American television's best sports analysis shows and has accumulated eighteen Sports Emmy Awards over its history.

At the 2024 Sports Emmy Awards in New York, Johnson secured his seventh Sports Emmy for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host, while Barkley clinched his fifth Sports Emmy for Outstanding Personality/Studio Analyst. Additionally, the show won its 21st Sports Emmy for Outstanding Studio Show – Limited Run.

Courtesy: TNT

The show's popularity stems from its outstanding comedy and strong friendships among the men. It consistently delivers entertaining and authentic moments, showcasing genuine laugh-out-loud scenes and lively dialogue.

Part of the show's appeal lies in its iconic segments, including "Shaqtin' A Fool," which showcases bloopers from across the league, and "Gone Fishin'," a lighthearted postseason send-off for the losing team.

Their basketball IQ and, most importantly, their unpredictability (who knows what will come out of Barkley's mouth?) make for must-see TV. These spontaneous moments remain essential to the show's appeal. Part of its success is due to the unscripted nature of the cast. Nothing is rehearsed (except for the topic), and no topics are off-limits. Smith has emphasized that others have tried to replicate their success but have failed because they deliberately do not participate in production meetings. They don't disclose what they will say to the production team, and it's been noted that no other production team allows this level of unscripted dialogue.

The quartet have enjoyed a successful twelve-year run, but their partnership may be coming to an end. Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), which oversees TNT Sports (TNT, TBS, and TruTV), failed to reach an agreement on a new media rights deal with the NBA during its exclusive 45-day negotiating window. Despite WBD CEO David Zaslav expressing hope for a mutually beneficial agreement, reports indicate that the NBA will likely sign written contracts with Disney, NBC, and Amazon. If WBD does not retain rights to the NBA, the 2024-25 season will be the last for TNT's "Inside the NBA."

Barley, who continually remains candid, confessed Thursday on the "Dan Patrick" show that "Morale sucks, plain and simple. You know, I just feel so bad for the people I work with, Dan. These people I work with they've screwed this thing up clearly. And we don't have zero idea what's going to happen. I don't feel good. I'm not gonna lie, especially when they came out yesterday and said we bought college football. I was like, well damn, they could have used that money to buy the NBA."

Courtesy: TNT

Barkley has considered hiring the crew for his production company, Fine Line Productions, and then selling the show to one of the remaining share holders.

If the show were to conclude after the 2024-25 season, there has been speculation about the crew potentially moving to a new network. Considering the potential departure of arguably the most popular studio analysis show, it raises questions about how the NBA media landscape would change.

"Honestly, we have no idea what is going to happen," Barkley said. "I don't know how everyone's contracts work. We're gonna have to see how it will play out."

The show's unique approach sets it apart and has contributed to its success. The freedom to discuss various topics, incorporate humor and cultural elements, and collaborate with Johnson has been instrumental to the team's accomplishments at TNT. Following the recent news, many wonder about the show's future if "Inside the NBA" moves to a different network. Would it retain its appeal to both dedicated and casual fans? Fans may follow the show on a new network, but Ernie Johnson has confirmed that he is staying at TNT. 

The show's widespread appeal, drawing in even those who don't watch the game, clearly indicates its success. It's difficult to envision the show moving forward without Shaq, Chuck, EJ, and Ernie as the faces of the show. "Inside the NBA" has undoubtedly become an integral part of NBA culture in its current iteration.

Update: Charles Barkley announced on NBA TV after Game 4 of the 2024 Finals that he will retire after the 2024-25 season.