If you’re not deeply engaged in the sports media rights landscape, the situation surrounding Inside the NBA might seem puzzling. This confusion was amplified when TNT effectively commemorated the beloved NBA program during Sunday’s All-Star Game, despite the fact that it will continue on a different network.
During one of the numerous breaks in the 2025 All-Star Game, Kevin Hart took to midcourt at San Francisco’s Chase Center to reflect on the longstanding NBA show, hosted by Ernie Johnson and featuring analysts Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal. The four joined Hart on the court, receiving various gifts, some of which were received with more enthusiasm than others. After being presented with All-Star jerseys, championship rings, and fishing gear because “it’s over” and “ain’t no work after this,” the group was prompted to share their thoughts on covering the league on TNT for so many years.
pic.twitter.com/yuScDi3U4K https://t.co/QwTYhHeNjO
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 17, 2025
Johnson shared his gratitude for his 40 years with TNT, Shaq delivered one of his classic quips, Kenny expressed appreciation for the NBA players they discuss, and Barkley thanked both the players and the fans. It became clearer through Johnson and Smith that Inside the NBA isn’t coming to an end; it’s just transitioning to ESPN. With Warner Bros. Discovery’s NBA broadcasting rights set to expire after this season, they’ve licensed the show to ESPN to ensure its continuation. Although it makes sense to honor Inside before its move, Hart’s wording may have suggested a final farewell, potentially confusing some viewers.
Similar to the Mr. Beast segment earlier that night, the presentation might have left viewers feeling more annoyed and confused than entertained. When it extended longer than expected, no sentiment captured the mood quite like that expressed by Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown.
Jaylen Brown for MVP pic.twitter.com/q0Gi19fNep
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) February 17, 2025
