Ernie Johnson to Host 25 'Inside the NBA' Games in 2026-27

Ernie Johnson will appear on the 'Inside the NBA' desk for 25 regular-season games during the 2026-27 season before stepping down as host. The 70-year-old Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer announced the decision in a social media video on Wednesday. He described the move as a personal choice, stating that it is simply time to shift his focus.

Johnson joined Turner Sports in 1989 and began hosting the show the following year. The program has won more than 20 Sports Emmy Awards. Since last season, the show has aired on ESPN and ABC rather than TNT Sports. The current lineup features Johnson alongside analysts Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O'Neal.

The broadcaster clarified that he is not retiring from media. He will continue to work on coverage of the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports. Johnson said he is cutting back on his schedule. He noted that he has dealt with heart issues in recent years, which made the importance of family time clear to him.

ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro issued a statement praising Johnson. Pitaro called Johnson one of sports media's most respected figures. He noted that Johnson has served as the heart of the show for more than three decades. Pitaro said the network looks forward to celebrating Johnson throughout the upcoming season.

Barkley, who is also in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, has previously indicated this might be his final season on the show. He has changed his mind and returned to the desk in earlier years. Johnson's departure marks the end of a long tenure for the lead anchor, while the show continues its schedule.

The third edition of the program airs on Wednesday. The Indiana Pacers host the Philadelphia 76ers at 7 p.m. ET. The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Dallas Mavericks in the second matchup. The show is scheduled to cover the regular season and the playoffs through the NBA Finals.