NewsABC7 News San Francisco (KGO-TV)October 28, 2026San Francisco County
Ernie Johnson announces his final season as host of Inside the NBA
Photo: ABC7 News San Francisco (KGO-TV)
Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer Ernie Johnson announced in a video Wednesday that he will step down as host of 'Inside the NBA' at the end of the season. Johnson stated he is not fully retiring from broadcasting and will continue covering events such as the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
Read the full story at ABC7 News San Francisco (KGO-TV)Why It Matters
Changes the lineup of a long-running sports studio show after more than three decades, as Johnson steps back to spend more time with his family following recent health considerations.
Key Facts
- Ernie Johnson announced that the upcoming season will be his final year hosting 'Inside the NBA'.
- Johnson emphasized that he is cutting back rather than fully retiring, and will continue covering the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
- He cited recent heart issues and a desire to spend more time with his family as key factors in his decision.
- ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro released a statement praising Johnson's three-decade career and contributions to the show.
- Johnson, 70, has worked for Turner Sports since 1989 and began hosting 'Inside the NBA' in 1990.
- The show features a regular panel consisting of Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O'Neal.
- Inside the NBA has won over 20 Sports Emmy Awards and transitioned from TNT Sports to ESPN and ABC starting last season.
- Charles Barkley has also previously stated his intention to make this his final season on the show, though he has reversed prior retirement announcements.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationOklahoma City Thunder“NBA team playing at the Dallas Mavericks.”PersonKenny Smith“Inside the NBA panelist.”OrganizationDallas Mavericks“NBA team hosting the Oklahoma City Thunder.”OrganizationTurner Sports“Broadcaster employing Ernie Johnson since 1989.”PersonJimmy Pitaro“ESPN chairman commenting on Ernie Johnson's career and contributions.”PersonShaquille O'Neal“Inside the NBA panelist.”OrganizationIndiana Pacers“NBA team hosting a game on Wednesday.”OrganizationPhiladelphia 76ers“NBA team playing against the Indiana Pacers.”PersonErnie Johnson“Broadcasting Hall of Famer announcing his final season hosting Inside the NBA.”PersonCharles Barkley“Inside the NBA panelist who has previously indicated his upcoming departure.”OrganizationESPN“Network currently broadcasting Inside the NBA.”OrganizationCBS“Broadcaster for which Ernie Johnson covers the NCAA men's basketball tournament.”OrganizationABC“Network currently broadcasting Inside the NBA.”