Charles Barkley Tears Up Discussing Ernie Johnson's Departure from Inside the NBA
Fellow analysts Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith also showed emotion as Barkley praised the legendary host.
Charles Barkley became visibly emotional, fighting back tears on air as he and his co-panelists addressed the impending departure of Ernie Johnson from Inside the NBA on Wednesday night. Johnson, the long-time host of the popular program, had announced earlier in the day that he would be stepping down at the conclusion of the 2026 NBA season.
During the first broadcast following Johnson's announcement, Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith took time to acknowledge their colleague's exit. Barkley, in particular, struggled to maintain his composure while speaking about their years working together.
"That was tough," Barkley said, his voice hoarse. "We knew the day was coming. It's still tough. I've been here for 26, 27 years, and it's been an honor and a privilege to work with you all this time. Kenny and Shaq, and the amazing people behind the scenes. Nothing like it. To be able to dribble a stupid basketball and get rich and famous, and then come here and get paid to watch the best players in the world."
Barkley continued, "I just want to say thank you. Thank you for being our leader for all these years. Man, it's still, even though I knew it was coming, it's still hard brother."
Johnson, visibly moved by Barkley's tribute, responded, "Chuckster, that means the world. I was holding everything together pretty well today."
Kenny Smith rose from his seat to lead a standing ovation for Johnson, who attempted to ease the emotional atmosphere by reminding everyone that there was still a full season ahead before his departure.
Johnson, 70, is entering his 37th season as the anchor of the show. He and his colleagues moved from TNT Sports to ESPN/ABC last year. Johnson plans to spend more time with his wife and grandchildren after his final season, though he clarified he is not retiring completely and will still participate in March Madness coverage and other select shows.
In a separate social media post, Johnson revealed that he had undergone heart bypass surgery last offseason, a health battle he had kept private. This follows an earlier fight with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the early 2000s, during which he continued to work while undergoing treatment.