Ernie Johnson to Exit Inside the NBA After 36 Seasons
The 70-year-old broadcaster announced Wednesday that he is cutting back on his workload but will continue covering college basketball for CBS and Turner Sports.
By Layla Petrov ·
Ernie Johnson will step down as host of Inside the NBA following the conclusion of the current season. The Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer made the announcement on social media on Wednesday, explaining that the decision reflects a natural transition in his career. He stated, “It’s just time.”
Johnson, 70, clarified that he is not retiring from broadcasting. He described the move as a reduction in his commitments rather than a final departure from the industry. “This is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page,” Johnson said. He added that he intends to continue working, specifically noting his plans to cover the NCAA men’s basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.
The six-time Sports Emmy Award winner addressed his health history in the announcement. He acknowledged dealing with heart issues in recent years but stated that medical concerns are not the primary reason for leaving the NBA studio. He explained, “I just want to slow down a bit.”
Johnson has been a fixture in sports media for nearly four decades. He joined Turner Sports in 1989 and has hosted Inside the NBA since 1990. During his tenure, he thanked the production crews at TNT Sports and ESPN for their support over the years. He also expressed gratitude to the audience for their consistent engagement.
“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 announcement marks the end of an era for the show, which has been a staple of NBA coverage since its inception.
