Ernie Johnson is stepping away from Inside the NBA after more than three decades, announcing that the 2026-27 season will be his last as host of the iconic basketball show.
The 70-year-old confirmed his decision in a social media video on Wednesday, explaining that recent health concerns and a desire to spend more time with family influenced his decision, according to ESPN.
“It’s just time,” Johnson said.
Johnson, who has dealt with heart issues in recent years, made it clear that he isn’t leaving broadcasting altogether.
“Just to be clear, I’m not retiring,” Johnson said. “Just cutting back. … So this is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page. And I’ll forever cherish every chapter we have written with ‘Inside the NBA.'”
Johnson will continue working on other broadcasts, including coverage of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
His announcement prompted an emotional response from longtime colleague Charles Barkley, who paid tribute to Johnson during Wednesday night’s show.
“It’s been an amazing journey,” Barkley said. “You’ve been our unquestionable leader. … The question I’m probably asked the most is: Is Ernie Johnson as good as a person as he seems? And I say, man, he’s better than that.
“So I just want to say thank you, thank you for being our leader for all these years. Even though I knew it was coming, it’s still hard, brother.”
Johnson joined Turner Sports in 1989 and began hosting Inside the NBA in 1990, eventually forming one of basketball’s most recognisable broadcasting teams alongside Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal.
The show has collected more than 20 Sports Emmy Awards and moved to ESPN and ABC last season.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro also acknowledged Johnson’s impact.
“For more than three decades, he has been the heart of ‘Inside the NBA,’ helping create one of the most iconic and entertaining studio shows in sports,” Pitaro said. “We are grateful for Ernie’s extraordinary contributions and look forward to celebrating him throughout the season.”
Johnson’s departure could also coincide with Barkley’s exit, with the former NBA star previously indicating that this season would be his last.
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