Barkley says 2026-27 likely final Inside NBA season

NBA broadcasting icon Charles Barkley has indicated that the upcoming 2026-27 season will likely be his last on the program "Inside the NBA." His departure is closely tied to that of longtime co-host Ernie Johnson, with Barkley stating they are a "package deal." Barkley shared these sentiments during a recent appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast. He explained that while he had initially planned to retire after the previous season, he agreed to stay on for an additional year to help ensure that behind-the-scenes staff could retain their jobs following the show's transition from TNT Sports to ESPN and ABC. "Me and Ernie are a package deal," Barkley told Simmons. "So right now, unless Ernie changes his mind, next year is my last year 100 percent." Johnson, who has hosted "Inside the NBA" since 1990, has reportedly indicated plans to retire in the near future, possibly after the upcoming season. Barkley, who joined the show in 2000, has been a central figure alongside Johnson, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith. The chemistry and distinctive commentary provided by the quartet have been a hallmark of the program for years.