Ernie Johnson’s Retirement Announcement

On Wednesday, Ernie Johnson, a veteran NBA broadcaster and host of “Inside the NBA,” announced he will retire at the end of the current season. Johnson shared a video message revealing he decided to step down after reaching the age of 70 this past summer. Reflecting on a career spanning 37 years, Johnson expressed amazement and gratitude for his “get to” job.

“This will be my last season. Totally my decision. It’s just time. It’s been an honor to share so many nights, decades, actually, at the desk, with my brothers, Kenny [Smith], Charles [Barkley], and [Shaquille O’Neal], and with our production crews who are so talented and devoted,” he said in part of his video message.

Johnson has been dealing with heart issues for the past two years, which contributed to his decision. He said, “we’re getting there,” as he works to overcome these health challenges. This experience has made him appreciate time with his family more and prompted him to “slow down a bit.” Despite retiring, Johnson plans to continue working on other projects for CBS and TNT, including March Madness broadcasts.

On an episode of ESPN’s “Inside the NBA,” co-host Charles Barkley expressed strong emotions upon hearing Johnson’s retirement news. “That was tough,” Barkley said, acknowledging the impending change. He described working alongside Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal for 26 to 27 years as an honor and privilege.

“You’ve been our leader, our unquestionable leader. The question I’m probably asked the most is, ‘Is Ernie Johnson as good a person as he seems?’ and I say, ‘Man, he’s better than that. So I just wanna say thank you, thank you for being our leader for all these years,” Barkley told Johnson on the show.

Barkley also announced his own intention to end his broadcasting career after this season. The decisions of Johnson and Barkley have deeply affected those around them. Support and affection poured in from NBA players, stars, and former colleagues.

Despite these changes, fans can still look forward to a season filled with ESPN’s coverage of NBA games. Upcoming events include a doubleheader with the Philadelphia 76ers versus the Indiana Pacers, followed by the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Dallas Mavericks.