Ernie Johnson to leave Inside the NBA after 2026-27 season

Ernie Johnson will step away as host of “Inside the NBA” after the 2026-27 season, his 37th year hosting the pre- and post-game show. He announced the decision on social media on Wednesday, saying it was his choice and that he is not retiring.

Johnson, 70, is in his 37th year as host of the programme, which debuted in 1989 and features Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith. It has become a staple of NBA coverage.

“This will be my last season,” Johnson said. “Totally my decision. It’s just time. It’s been an honor to share so many nights, decades actually, with my brothers.”

Johnson plans to keep working

Johnson said he would remain involved in TNT and CBS Sports’ March Madness coverage after leaving the show. In a video lasting nearly three minutes, he also said he would work on other projects for the two organisations.

“Just to be clear, I’m not retiring,” he said. “Just cutting back.” Johnson has also started a production company, 32 Bowties, which he said is geared towards telling feel-good stories in sports.

His announcement therefore marks the end of his time hosting “Inside the NBA”, rather than a departure from broadcasting altogether. Johnson said he would cherish the chapters he and his colleagues had written together on the programme.

Barkley’s future linked to the decision

Johnson’s departure could also affect Barkley’s future on the show. Speaking last month on “The Bill Simmons Podcast”, Barkley said the 2026-27 season would be his last unless Johnson changed his mind about returning beyond it.

“Me and Ernie are a package deal,” Barkley said. He explained that Johnson had asked him to stay for two more years and that he had agreed, but made clear his position depended on whether Johnson continued.

“If he says he’s done, I’m gone,” Barkley said. His comments came before Johnson’s public announcement on Wednesday, which confirmed that the host intends to leave after this season.

For now, Johnson remains in place for the 2026-27 NBA season. After it ends, he plans to continue his March Madness work and other TNT and CBS projects, while “Inside the NBA” faces the departure of its long-serving host.