Ernie Johnson Announces Departure from 'Inside the NBA' After 37 Seasons

Ernie Johnson, the beloved host of Inside the NBA, has announced that he will step down from the show at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season, bringing to a close a remarkable 37-year tenure that has seen him become a staple of NBA broadcasting. Johnson, who is 70 years old, made the decision to leave the show reportedly due to a desire to spend more time with his family, as well as to focus on other projects such as his production company, 32 Bow Ties. ¹³

Johnson's departure comes at a poignant time, as he recently underwent bypass surgery just 14 months ago, adding a layer of personal health considerations to his decision-making process. Despite these health challenges, Johnson has continued to excel in his role, winning Sports Emmys for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host in the past two years, a testament to his enduring popularity and skill as a broadcaster. ³

Charles Barkley, a longtime co-host on Inside the NBA, has also indicated that this will be his final season on the show, suggesting a significant transition period for the program. ²⁴ The upcoming season promises to be a memorable one for Inside the NBA, with the show set to make 25 regular-season appearances and cover the playoffs all the way through to the NBA Finals. ²

While Johnson's departure marks the end of an era for Inside the NBA, he will not be entirely leaving the world of sports broadcasting. He plans to continue his involvement with NCAA basketball coverage on TNT, ensuring that fans will still have opportunities to see him in action. ⁴

What we know

• - Ernie Johnson is stepping down as host of Inside the NBA at the end of the 2026-27 season. ¹²³⁴⁵
• - Johnson has hosted Inside the NBA for 37 seasons. ¹³⁴⁵
• - Johnson is 70 years old. ¹²⁴⁵
• - Johnson underwent bypass surgery 14 months prior to the announcement. ¹³
• - Johnson has dealt with heart issues in recent years. ²⁴
• - Charles Barkley has also stated this will be his final season on Inside the NBA. ²⁴
• - Johnson has a production company called 32 Bow Ties. ⁴⁵
• - Johnson made the announcement on social media. ¹
• - Johnson wishes to spend more time with his family. ¹
• - Inside the NBA will make 25 regular-season appearances in 2026-27 and cover the playoffs through the NBA Finals. ²
• - Johnson has won Sports Emmys for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host eight times, including the last two years. ³
• - Inside the NBA has won over 20 Sports Emmy Awards throughout its history. ⁴
• - Johnson will continue to be involved in NCAA basketball coverage on TNT. ⁴