In an era when NBA broadcast rights are a hot commodity, the high-energy basketball commentary show “Inside the NBA“ has secured its future for the next decade. Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), the parent company of TNT, faced a significant challenge when it lost its U.S. NBA broadcasting rights to Amazon, Disney (ESPN and ABC), and NBC Universal. But fans of the irreverent, sometimes chaotic, and always entertaining show can breathe a sigh of relief: Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson will continue their legendary on-screen banter for at least another 10 years.
A Rocky Path to Renewal
This news comes on the heels of intense negotiations and even a legal scuffle. Earlier this year, Warner Bros. Discovery took the NBA to court in New York over the broadcasting rights issue, marking one of the most publicized standoffs between a media giant and a sports organization in recent years. Losing the broadcast rights left a gap in TNT’s sports portfolio, but WBD was determined to keep “Inside the NBA” alive as the show itself has a massive following.
Under the settlement terms, Warner Bros. Discovery secured international broadcasting rights for NBA games for the next 11 years. Meanwhile, the NBA agreed to license “Inside the NBA” to Disney’s ESPN and ABC networks, allowing TNT’s beloved hosts to remain visible on national television.
Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson: Still Together
In the deal’s aftermath, WBD confirmed that all four hosts would remain. Charles Barkley, the outspoken and often hilarious center of the show, previously signed a $210 million, 10-year contract in 2022. His retirement plans are now on hold as the show lives on.
Shaquille O’Neal, who was rumored to be considering a new chapter, has decided to renew his contract as part of this agreement. O’Neal has a knack for bringing laughs and occasionally riling up his co-hosts, while Kenny Smith’s insights and Ernie Johnson’s calm, guiding presence balance out the show’s energy.
NBA’s 11-Year, $77 Billion Broadcasting Deal: A New Era for the League
The NBA’s renewed broadcasting contracts saw a dramatic hike, reflecting the league’s growing popularity and marketability. The total value of the contract package is $77 billion over 11 years—a staggering figure that has attracted streaming giants and television networks alike. Warner Bros. Discovery, despite its efforts, couldn’t match the steep competition, resulting in Amazon, Disney, and NBC Universal securing the U.S. broadcast rights.
However, Warner Bros. Discovery’s strategy to retain international NBA streaming rights could prove beneficial, as the NBA’s global audience continues to expand, especially across Asia and Europe.
What’s Next for TNT and Inside the NBA?
With the U.S. broadcasting rights secured by other players, this agreement means TNT’s connection to the NBA will officially end in the 2024-2025 season. Nevertheless, the “Inside the NBA” crew is expected to keep providing their unique mix of analysis, humor, and debates. Starting in 2025, fans can catch the show on ESPN and ABC, integrating the legendary program into Disney’s extensive sports portfolio.
Inside the NBA’s Global Appeal
“Inside the NBA” has become an essential part of basketball culture, with viewers tuning in not just for game analysis but for Barkley’s unfiltered takes, Shaq’s jokes, and the ongoing playful rivalries among the hosts. The show’s move to ESPN and ABC signifies a new chapter, potentially reaching a broader audience and bringing its light-hearted approach to fans worldwide.
FAQs
Due to the increased value of the broadcasting deal, Warner Bros. Discovery couldn’t match the competitive offers from Amazon, Disney, and NBC Universal.
From 2025 onward, the show will be licensed to ESPN and ABC as part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s settlement with the NBA.
No, Barkley signed a 10-year contract in 2022, and the new deal ensures he will continue on “Inside the NBA” alongside Shaq, Kenny, and Ernie.
Warner Bros. Discovery secured the NBA’s international broadcasting rights for the next 11 years.
Conclusion
The saga of “Inside the NBA” has shown just how much the show means to fans and the lengths Warner Bros. Discovery went to keep it alive. With ESPN and ABC stepping in to broadcast it, the popular commentary show continues to thrive even as NBA broadcast rights shift. The crew of Barkley, Shaq, Kenny, and Ernie remain intact, ready to entertain basketball fans for years to come. The show’s legacy endures, reminding us that some teams—like the “Inside the NBA” lineup—are worth keeping together.
