Ernie Johnson to step down as host of "Inside the NBA" after this season
Ernie Johnson announced he will retire from his role as host of "Inside the NBA" after the current season, while continuing to work on other sports broadcasts.
Sports broadcasting veteran Ernie Johnson said he will retire from his position as host of "Inside the NBA" at the end of the season. In a video posted on social media, Johnson explained that the decision was his own and that "it's just time," adding that he will keep working on projects such as the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
"Just to be clear, I'm not retiring. Just cutting back. ... So this is by no means the end. It's just a turning of the page. And I'll forever cherish every chapter we have written with 'Inside the NBA.'"
Johnson, 70, noted that recent heart-related health concerns have prompted him to prioritize family time and reduce his workload. He said he is feeling well and wants to "slow down a bit."
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro issued a statement praising Johnson's three-decade tenure, calling him a central figure of the show and thanking him for his contributions. The program, which features Johnson alongside Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O'Neal, has earned more than 20 Sports Emmy Awards and recently moved from TNT to ESPN and ABC.
Barkley, who had previously indicated the season would be his last on the show, has previously returned after announcing his departure.