Ernie Johnson is making a significant career move.
The star sportscaster for TNT Sports announced Wednesday that he will be hosting “Inside the NBA” for the final time during the 2026-27 season in what is a decision made completely on his own.
It will be his 37th year hosting the show and he will sit beside Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal for one final run.
Johnson noted a “contributing factor” to his decision, which is that he has dealt with heart issues over the past two years, which included bypass surgery 14 months ago.
“Still trying to get this thing to beat in exactly the way it should, and we are getting there,” Johnson said in a video posted to X. “I feel great. So, this isn’t a case where my doctor said ‘You need to stop working.’ It’s nothing like that, but here’s the deal. Going through that has made me treasure even more every second with my amazing wife of 44 years Cheryl and being Poppi to our five grandchildren.
“So, I just want to slow down a bit and spend more time enjoying that.”
Johnson, 70, added he is “not retiring” but rather “cutting back.”
He will still be a part of March Madness among other projects for TNT and CBS. Johnson also said he started a production company, 32 Bowties, that will highlight feel-good stories in sports.
“This is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page,” he said.
One of his favorite parts of the job has always been the hours logged in preparation for the night ahead throughout his career. He said that has now become “more of challenge than it is a joy,” and was an indicator to step away.
Johnson had a fun conclusion to last season, hosting the Knicks’ championship ceremony after their Game 5 win over the Spurs in San Antontio in June. He also interviewed the NBA Finals MVP Jalen Brunson on “Inside the NBA” following the champagne celebrations.
“It’s just time,” Johnson said. “It’s been an honor to share so many nights, decades actually at the desk with my brothers — Kenny, Charles and Shaq — and with our production crews who are so talented and devoted. I so appreciate the leadership at TNT and ESPN for allowing the show to continue.”
Source link
#Ernie #Johnson #retiring #NBA #reveals #health #issues