Ernie Johnson has been the host of Inside the NBA for a long time, but it turns out this will be his final season.
On Wednesday, Johnson announced on social media that he is retiring after the 2026-27 NBA season.
“This will be my last season. Totally my decision. It’s just time,” Johnson said. “So why now? I also prided myself on my preparation…I’ve always loved that part of my job. I always vowed that if that ever became a challenge more than a joy, then I’d know it’s time to step away.”
It’s time. 🤟🤟🏾🤟🏻🤟🏽 https://t.co/h1qNwsnkUY
— Ernie Johnson (@TurnerSportsEJ) October 28, 2026
Johnson also spoke about the heart issues he has gone through and how he has continued to “treasure” the time spent with his wife.
Johnson was asked recently about his career, and he said he could “see the finish line.”
Ernie Johnson began hosting Inside the NBA in 1990, and he has become a staple for that show as well as calling March Madness games. The Inside the NBA show moved from TNT to ESPN recently, but Johnson showed nothing but appreciation for the networks keeping him around for such a long time.
This past NCAA Tournament, Johnson took a step back from covering March Madness. Johnson did say he isn’t retiring completely, and he will do projects for TNT and CBS, including March Madness. However, this will be the end of the road for him at Inside the NBA.
Hats off to a legendary run.
