Charles Barkley, a key member of the “Inside the NBA” team, announced after Game 4 of the NBA Finals that next season will be his last with the program, regardless of its continuation beyond that. He also revealed that he will be retiring from NBA television altogether after the 2024-25 season. Despite offers from other networks, Barkley stated that he will remain with TNT until the end of next season and then pass the baton to a new generation of analysts.
Barkley has been vocal about the uncertainty surrounding the future of “Inside the NBA” as Warner Bros. Discovery competes for a spot in the next NBA media rights deal. He expressed frustration with the situation, particularly with the company’s handling of the negotiations with the league.
Despite speculation that Barkley could leave Turner Sports if they lost rights to NBA games, he clarified that he has no plans to move to another network. TNT Sports issued a statement praising Barkley as a Hall of Famer and broadcasting icon, and expressed excitement for another NBA season with him on board.
Barkley, who joined “Inside the NBA” in 2000 after his playing career, thanked his NBA family and announced his retirement plans after 25 years in television. While the future of the show remains uncertain, Barkley’s departure marks the end of an era for the popular NBA program.
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