Ernie Johnson to Leave "Inside the NBA" After 37 Years

Ernie Johnson announced on social media that he will step away from his role as host of "Inside the NBA" at the conclusion of this season, ending a 37-year tenure that began in 1990. > "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. And lastly, I just want to say thanks to you. Thanks for your loyalty, for your love, for your support, and on this day, for your understanding," Johnson wrote.

The 70-year-old said the decision follows his bypass surgery 14 months ago and a history of health challenges, including a 2003 diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and a 2018 absence from MLB playoff coverage due to blood clots in his legs. He said he wants to devote more time to his wife and grandchildren.

Johnson has been a fixture of the program alongside former NBA players Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal. Barkley also indicated he will retire from the show at the end of the season. "Inside the NBA" has earned 19 Sports Emmy Awards and moved to ABC and ESPN in 2025 after a long run on Turner networks.