Ernie Johnson to end his run hosting Inside the NBA
Ernie Johnson, 70, will step down as host of Inside the NBA when the 2026-27 season ends, he said in a social media video. Johnson has hosted the program for 37 seasons, since 1990. He said he wants more time with family and cited heart issues in recent years, and he denied being forced out or retiring. He will keep working for TNT and CBS, including NCAA men's basketball tournament coverage. Adam Lefkoe may be the in-house frontrunner to succeed him, according to Yahoo Sports. The show, which also features Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith, has won 21 Sports Emmy Awards.
Key facts
- Johnson announced the decision on social media on 28 Oct, saying 2026-27 will be his final season as host.
- Johnson also started a production company called 32 Bowties.
- Charles Barkley said last month that this season would be his last unless Johnson changed his mind.
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Why it matters
The departure of the show's longtime host ends a 37-season run and leaves the studio lineup's succession open.
What changed
First published from Yahoo Sports, CBS Sports, The Guardian and The Independent