Charles Barkley Pokes Fun on Potential Final Season of 'Inside the NBA' Show Amid TNT's Uncertain Future With League

Shaquille O'Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley - 2017 NBA Awards Live On TNT - Inside
(Photo : Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for TNT) NEW YORK, NY - (L-R) Shaquille O'Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley speak on stage during the 2017 NBA Awards Live On TNT on June 26, 2017 in New York City. 27111_001

TNT concluded its NBA coverage for the 2023-24 season on Thursday, May 30, as the Western Conference Finals ended, with the Dallas Mavericks securing a spot in the 2024 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics.

Next season could mark the network's final season covering the league amid speculation that NBC could acquire the league's secondary television rights.

TNT's "Inside the NBA" show has been celebrated as a fan favorite since its inception in 1989 due to its light-hearted content featuring former NBA players Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and main host Ernie Johnson.

Co-host Charles Barkley jokingly remarked about the show's potential final season in 2024-25.

"I cannot wait for next season. It's gonna be a blast," host Ernie Johnson initially said when signing off for TNT's NBA coverage as the NBA Finals will be aired on ESPN.

Read more: Los Angeles Lakers Looking to Add Former LeBron James Teammate to Assistant Coaching Staff Next Season

"Did Ernie say 'blast' or 'last'?" Barkley humorously quipped.  

Luka Doncic reveals thoughts on 'Inside the NBA' potentially ending

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic sat down with the TNT crew after winning the Western Conference Finals and capturing the Magic Johnson Trophy.

With Barkley wishing Doncic luck in the finals and saying they will miss the Slovenian guard, Doncic shared his thoughts.

"You ain't done yet. We've got to figure out something," the 25-year-old said on air.

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