Charles Barkley, a staple of TNT’s “Inside the NBA,” expressed significant concerns about the future of the show amid negotiations for the NBA’s TV rights deal. With TNT competing against NBC for the final piece of the deal, Barkley emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the fate of the beloved studio show to ESPN Chicago.
“I wish I had any damn idea you know we’re in a bidding war with NBC, you know they’ve already signed their package with ESPN, they’ve already signed their package with Amazon and it’s down to one piece of the puzzle between us and NBC and I think the last we’ve heard is right around 2.5 billion.”
“We have zero idea what’s going to happen. We might lose it, I mean it’s, I feel so bad for the people I work with, I mean it is brutal. Everybody is scared to death.” (23:33)
Having been a part of “Inside the NBA” since 2000, Barkley admitted that those involved in the program have “zero idea” about what the future holds. He candidly acknowledged the possibility of losing the show, expressing empathy for his colleagues and describing the situation as “brutal.”
The show, which first aired in 1989, has become an integral part of the NBA’s broadcast coverage, featuring a seasoned crew including Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal.
TNT Sports has a long history of broadcasting NBA games, spanning nearly four decades. However, with the current contract set to expire after the 2024-25 season, the network faces stiff competition from NBC. Both networks are vying for lucrative rights that are expected to include broadcasting a conference final every other year, along with the annual All-Star Game.
Barkley expressed his concerns about the bidding war, suggesting that it’s “50-50” whether TNT retains its portion of the media rights deal. Despite TNT’s longstanding partnership with the NBA, Barkley acknowledged that the outcome remains uncertain. While he hoped that TNT’s history with the league would work in its favor, he conceded that it might not be enough to secure the deal.
The reported asking price for the rights is a staggering $2.5 billion per season, reflecting the high stakes involved in the negotiations. As the bidding war unfolds, Barkley’s apprehension underscores the significance of the decision not only for TNT but also for the future of NBA broadcasting.
Adam Silver Has A Massive Decision On His Hands
The potential demise of “Inside the NBA” is indeed a significant moment, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver faces a monumental decision. As a journalist and longtime fan of the show, it’s clear that the impact of this decision extends far beyond just the realm of sports broadcasting.
“Inside the NBA” holds a special place in the hearts of fans and journalists alike. For many, it was one of the first shows they watched when they fell in love with basketball, and its legendary status has only grown over the years. From its inception, the show has been a beacon of excellence, providing unparalleled insight, entertainment, and camaraderie.
Adam Silver, renowned for his leadership in steering the NBA through various challenges and changes, now finds himself at a crossroads. The decision about the fate of “Inside the NBA” is not just about television rights or programming schedules—it’s about preserving a cultural institution, a cherished part of the basketball community.
For years, “Inside the NBA” has been basketball’s purest and best show, capturing the essence of the sport with its blend of analysis, humor, and genuine camaraderie among the hosts. Its influence extends beyond the screen, shaping how fans engage with the game and how journalists cover it.
As a commissioner known for making tough but fair decisions, Adam Silver now faces perhaps his most significant test yet. The choice to continue or end “Inside the NBA” will have ramifications that reverberate throughout the basketball world. It’s a decision that goes beyond ratings or revenue—it’s about preserving a cultural touchstone, a cherished tradition that has become synonymous with the NBA itself.
So, to Adam Silver, the plea is simple: Please do not end “Inside the NBA.” Preserve this iconic show for generations of fans to come, ensuring that its legacy continues to shine brightly in the ever-evolving landscape of basketball.
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