For the second time in as many years, “Inside the NBA” is facing what some see as an existential threat. This time, it is the retirement of longtime host Ernie Johnson.
Johnson addressed the future of the show in an appearance on “Front Office Sports Tonight.” The longtime host said he saw no reason the show could not continue after his departure, and suggested there are many quality replacements for him.
“I don’t want to be blamed for ending ‘Inside the NBA,'” Johnson said. “I’m stepping away from my role on there. I would hope that they could continue the show in some form. There are plenty of great studio hosts out there who could do what I do.”
"I don’t want to be blamed for ending Inside the NBA." Ernie Johnson hopes the show continues on without him after he retires. New episode drops at 11 p.m. ET on Samsung TV+ or check your local listings. https://t.co/PA3HjQzX8K
— Front Office Sports Tonight (@FOSTonight) October 30, 2026
Johnson has been a staple of “Inside the NBA” since he joined in 1990, which is why his retirement decision came as such a shock. To many, he is the glue that holds the program together, as he provides a counterbalance to the strong personalities that surround him. Johnson may think otherwise, but few could step into that role seamlessly.
It may not be Johnson’s retirement alone that is causing worry among some fans. After all, there is some reason to believe that may be the catalyst for Charles Barkley to leave the show as well.
