Despite some pending litigation, this very much seems to be the final season of the NBA on TNT — which means the end of the line for Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal together in the studio.
As you know, the end of the league’s games will also mean the end of Inside the NBA. As you perhaps also know, TNT is suing to remain a media partner. (Most, however, expect that lawsuit to go nowhere.)
Either way, ESPN/ABC will continue on as a media partner, remaining in pace with newcomers NBC Sports and Amazon Prime in 2025.
Right now, Barkley is considered the best analyst in the game. And if not the best, undoubtedly the most discussed. So it would only make sense for one of the other networks/streamers to try to land him after the season.
Apparently, that is precisely what ESPN — owned by Disney — intends to do.
“My understanding, though, is also this is a little clearing the decks. Like, you know, you would have thought Woj leaving would have cleared a lot of money — which certainly did –but that they are clearing the decks for a run at Charles Barkley next year when the TNT is over,” the San Francisco Standard’s Tim Kawakami said on House of Strauss, via HoopsHype. “I don’t know that they’re going to get Barkley, but I think they’re just clearing it out, saying, ‘We’re going to redo what we do as we can.’”
Barkley? To ESPN? Yes, the network would have to ante it. But perhaps it’s willing to do exactly that. If not, one of the others should. Agree or disagree with Barkley’s takes, he’s must-see TV. Those who work in TV are smart enough to know that.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
