Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, who has become a household name on television as a live commentator on TNT's “Inside the NBA,” has announced that next year will be his last in the television Barkley, who has arguably gained more fame in his second career than his first, confirmed his departure following the Dallas Mavericks' Game 4 win over the Boston Celtics.
Barkley expressed his gratitude to his NBA family, stating that his heart is filled with joy and gratitude. His departure aligns with the expiration of the Warner Bros. media rights deal. Discovery with the NBA after the next season. While there is potential for renewal, other companies such as NBC and Amazon have made higher offers. A decision on which networks or platforms will secure NBA rights, including a separate package that will likely continue on ESPN, is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Barkley clarified that he will not be moving to another network, but will instead pass his role on to Jamal Crawford, Vince Carter or Steve Smith. After 25 years in the industry, Barkley plans to retire.
Barkley's television career began in 2000 when he joined TNT's award-winning studio show “Inside the NBA” as an analyst. During his nearly two and a half decades at the network, Barkley has received four Sports Emmys and been inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
The future of the NBA on TNT remains uncertain. However, Warner Bros. Discovery recently announced a 10-year deal to become the new US home for the French Open tennis tournament starting in 2025. This extensive deal includes live streaming of approximately 900 matches on Max streaming platform, with highlights on TNT and TBS and a new show on truTV. Warner Bros. Discovery has a long relationship with Roland-Garros, having broadcast the tennis tournament across Europe on Eurosport since 1989.
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