Charles Barkley Reveals One Concern He And Inside The NBA’s Ernie Johnson Have Discussed Amid The Show’s ESPN Move

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A fresh start is imminent for “Inside the NBA”, along with its hosts and associates, as they prepare to transition from TNT to ESPN following a significant licensing agreement for the popular sports talk show. While many are grateful that the program will persist on air, there remains uncertainty about how it will transform on its new platform. Co-host Charles Barkley has been one of the most vocal figures, and he recently disclosed one apprehension he’s discussed with Ernie Johnson.

Charles Barkley, a key figure of “Inside the NBA,” has been open about his thoughts regarding the show’s previous speculated cancellation and its continued existence. Although his future with the program is secured, Barkley has voiced some uncertainty about what lies ahead. In a recent conversation with the “Pardon My Take” podcast, he was asked to comment on the upcoming chapter of “Inside the NBA.” Barkley acknowledged that he’s unsure how the show will evolve and is curious about the format it might adopt on Disney’s main sports network.

Typically, our show’s peak time is post-game, giving us approximately 45 minutes of casual conversation. However, Ernie [Johnson] and I have discussed this. The question is, will we still have that freedom? Or will they require us to move on to SportsCenter? Firstly, it’s a privilege to work for ESPN, being the largest sports network in TV history. But when we have those 45 minutes at around one in the morning, and can let loose, things can get quite unusual… Yet, will they tell us, “No guys, you only have 15 minutes. We need to go to SportsCenter”?

As a devoted fan, I must say that if you’ve tuned into Inside the NBA, you’re well aware of how the program delves not only into game highlights but also into captivating conversations among its stellar panelists: Sir Charles, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and the one and only Shaquille O’Neal. The camaraderie between these four is what truly sets this show apart, with Sir Charles engaging in thought-provoking discussions that keep us hooked. When Barkley described the broadcasts as “weird” during his recent interview (available on YouTube), I believe he was alluding to the fact that things can get a bit unpredictable, especially as the night wears on. It’s during these late hours that Barkley and O’Neal really let loose while the cameras are still rolling!

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but share my concerns about the future pacing of “Inside.” Even legendary sports analyst Charles Barkley isn’t alone in his apprehensions. Bill Simmons, another respected voice in sports media, has openly stated that ESPN might compromise the show due to its commercial-heavy programming. The network’s president, Jimmy Pitaro, has assured us no changes will be made, but as of now, Charles Barkley appears less than fully convinced.

If everyone decides to maintain the status quo, it will require adjustments, just like if a game ends, you can’t expect SportsCenter to tell you to ‘take a break for 45 minutes.’ Instead, they would likely say something like ‘We need to go to SportsCenter in 15 or 20 minutes.’ This is because there will be a learning curve when it comes to adapting to any changes.

In a recent conversation, Charles Barkley’s statements about the cancellation/move drama surrounding Inside the NBA were somewhat toned down compared to his outbursts in 2024 when the show was at risk of being canceled. During that tumultuous period, Barkley expressed some incredibly bold opinions. In an interview with Pardon My Take, he not only voiced his frustrations but also criticized TNT and Warner Bros. Discovery for failing to keep him and his co-hosts informed about the show’s uncertain future. As of now, Barkley is eagerly awaiting more information regarding his work schedule, which might be more demanding than what he’s accustomed to.

For quite some time, I’ve had the pleasure of being an avid viewer of “Inside the NBA”. It wouldn’t be truthful to deny that I harbor a bit of concern about how this beloved series will fare under ESPN’s management. Yet, one thing that brings me solace is the knowledge that Barkley and his team are still set to grace our screens together. Here’s hoping they continue their lively on-screen banter as they have for years, keeping us entertained just as they always have.

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2025-08-04 01:38