“Inside the NBA” to Transition to ESPN in Landmark Deal

(Hollywood, CA) Sports News: The iconic basketball studio show Inside the NBA, known for its unique mix of humor, insight, and candid commentary from Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson, is moving from TNT to ESPN and ABC starting next season. This transition comes as part of a legal settlement between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), the parent company of TNT, and the NBA, following disputes over the NBA’s new $77 billion media rights deal.

Despite moving networks, Inside the NBA will retain its signature format, panelists, and production team. The show will air during major NBA events on ESPN and ABC, including opening week, Christmas Day, the NBA playoffs, and the Finals. WBD will continue producing the show, ensuring its distinctive style remains unchanged, even as it transitions to a new platform.

This shift underscores ESPN’s strategy to bolster its NBA programming, which has often been overshadowed by Inside the NBA. The move could reshape the competitive landscape of basketball coverage, with Inside the NBA complementing ESPN’s existing game broadcasts.

Meanwhile, WBD has gained rights to broadcast international NBA games and Big 12 sports, marking a broader strategic pivot. Fans can look forward to seeing their favorite analysts in a new venue while the show continues its celebrated legacy.