‘Inside the NBA’ heads to ESPN in new deal 

The future of “Inside the NBA,” one of basketball’s most iconic studio shows, is in question following Turner Sports’ loss of NBA broadcasting rights. Beginning with the 2025-26 season, the NBA’s media rights shift to ESPN, NBC/Peacock and Amazon, ending Turner’s decades-long association with the league.Hosted by Ernie Johnson and featuring analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley, “Inside the NBA” has set the standard for sports broadcasting with its humor, chemistry and cultural impact. The quartet, which has been together since 2011, may not continue under the new arrangement.Who’s staying? Who’s going?Despite the arrangement, Barkley’s future is currently uncertain.While he signed a 10-year contract with Turner in 2022, it included an opt-out clause should the company lose NBA rights. Barkley hinted at retiring after the 2024-25 season, regardless of the network’s situation, though some remain skeptical of his decision. His departure could signal a major shift for the show, as Barkley is one of its most beloved personalities.Johnson, however, seems likely to remain at Turner, continuing his role across multiple sports. Reports suggest he has no plans to leave, even with the end of NBA coverage. The futures of Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith remain unclear, with no...