Longtime host Ernie Johnson announced that the 2026-27 season will be his last on Inside the NBA, ending a 37-year run as the face of the iconic studio show.
Johnson, 70, shared the news in a video posted on social media Wednesday.
“This will be my last season,” he said. “Totally my decision. It’s just time. It’s been an honor to share so many nights — decades, actually — at the desk with my brothers, Kenny, Charles, and Shaq.”
He explained that he has always prided himself on preparation and vowed to step away if that work ever became more of a challenge than a joy. “After 37 seasons, it’s time,” Johnson said.
Health also played a role. Johnson revealed he has dealt with heart issues for nearly two years and underwent bypass surgery 14 months ago. While he says he feels great and was not ordered by doctors to stop working, the experience made him want to slow down and spend more time with his wife of 44 years, Cheryl Ann, and their five grandchildren.
Johnson emphasized he is not retiring from television. He will continue to host March Madness coverage for TNT and CBS and has launched a new production company called “32 Bowties,” focused on telling feel-good stories in sports. “This is by no means the end,” he said. “It’s just a turning of the page.”
Inside the NBA has long been one of the most popular and critically acclaimed studio shows in sports, featuring Johnson alongside Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal. The show has won multiple Sports Emmy Awards and remains a staple of NBA coverage.
Johnson’s final season is already underway. He said he looks forward to the rest of the year and thanked fans for their loyalty and support. The entire Gospel Central family wishes Ernie all the best in his future endeavors.
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