Ernie Johnson to Step Down From Inside the NBA After 2026-27 Season

Ernie Johnson announced Wednesday that the 2026-27 NBA season will be his final year hosting Inside the NBA.

The show has aired since 1989. Johnson, 70, confirmed the decision in a video posted to social media. He said, "This will be my last season. Totally my decision. It's just time." He added that it has been an honor to spend decades with his co-hosts.

Johnson clarified that he is not leaving the industry entirely. He will continue working on March Madness coverage for TNT and CBS Sports. He also launched a new production company called 32 Bowties, which focuses on positive sports stories.

"Just to be clear, I'm not retiring," Johnson said. "Just cutting back. I'll still do March Madness and other projects for TNT and CBS."

The move affects Charles Barkley's future on the program. Barkley told The Bill Simmons Podcast last month that he planned to stay only if Johnson did. He described the two as a package deal. "So right now, unless Ernie changes his mind, next year is my last year, 100 percent," Barkley said. "If he says he's done, I'm gone."

Barkley recalled a conversation where he agreed to stay for two additional years. He told Johnson, "I love you, man. You're the best." Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith remain part of the studio team.