Charles Barkley announced on the NBA Finals postgame show that he will not be following the league wherever it goes, regardless of what happens with the NBA’s media deals. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the NBA’s broadcasting rights, Barkley has made it clear that he will not be a part of any future deals.
The NBA’s current deals with ABC-ESPN and Turner Sports are set to expire after next season, prompting discussions with networks such as NBC, ESPN, and Amazon about future broadcasting rights. Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his hope that new long-term deals will be finalized soon.
Despite their uncertain future on air, the cast of the popular “Inside the NBA” studio show, including Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith, have addressed their upcoming changes. While Barkley’s experience and insights would make him a valuable asset to any NBA broadcasting network, he has decided that next season will be his last on television.
At 61 years old, Barkley is looking forward to the next chapter of his career. He has spent 25 years as a studio analyst for TNT and has become a beloved figure in basketball. Although he may not be on TV anymore, his legacy will continue to live on in the sport he loves.
