Ernie Johnson to step away from Inside the NBA after 37 seasons
Ernie Johnson said he will leave Inside the NBA after the 2026‑27 season, citing heart health and a desire to spend more time with family, but will stay in sports broadcasting.
Key points
- Johnson will leave Inside the NBA after 37 seasons, ending his 2026‑27 run as host.
- He cited heart issues and a need to slow down and focus on family.
- Johnson will continue covering the NCAA men’s tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
- Charles Barkley expressed emotion during a live broadcast.
- The move is seen as a new chapter rather than retirement from broadcasting.
Ernie Johnson announced on Wednesday that he will leave Inside the NBA after the 2026-27 season, concluding his 37th season as the show’s host. The 70-year-old broadcaster stated that health concerns, specifically heart issues, prompted him to reconsider his priorities and spend more time with his family.
Johnson described his departure as a personal choice rather than a complete retirement from broadcasting. He explained that his recent health experiences encouraged him to reassess how he spends his time and to slow down after decades in the industry. "I just want to slow down a bit," Johnson said, characterizing the move as a turning point and a new chapter in his career.
While stepping away from the NBA studio show, Johnson confirmed he will remain involved in sports broadcasting. He is expected to continue his coverage of the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports. The announcement marks a change in his professional commitments rather than an exit from the field.
Charles Barkley reacted emotionally to the news during a live broadcast. "Even though I knew it was coming, it’s still hard, brother," Barkley told Johnson. The announcement has been described by various figures in the sports world as the end of an era for the beloved program, which now airs on ESPN.
Your questions, answered
Why is Ernie Johnson leaving Inside the NBA?
He cited heart health concerns and a desire to spend more time with family, deciding to slow down after decades in the industry.
Will Ernie Johnson retire from broadcasting?
No, he said he is not retiring from broadcasting and will continue covering the NCAA men’s tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
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