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'I'm looking forward to continuing to work with them both on the shows we currently have and new ones we develop together in the future.'
Former NBA player Charles Barkley has had a change of heart and announced that he won’t be retiring from sportscasting after all.
In June, the NBA Hall of Famer declared that “no matter what happens, next year is gonna be my last year on television.” But, according to a press release by Warner Bros. Discovery, Barkley has recommitted to working with TNT Sports and their parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery.
In a written statement, Barkley said, “I love my TNT Sports family. My #1 priority has been and always will be our people and keeping everyone together for as long as possible. We have the most amazing people, and they are the best at what they do. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them both on the shows we currently have and the new ones we develop together. This is the only place for me.”
“I have to say–I’ve been impressed by the leadership team who is fighting hard and have been aggressive in adding new properties to TNT Sports, which I am very excited about. I appreciate them and all of my colleagues for their continued support and, most importantly, our fans. I’m going to give my all as we keep them entertained for years to come.”
NEWS: Charles Barkley and TNT Sports have announced a continued long-term commitment!
“I love my TNT Sports family…This is the only place for me.” — Barkley
More: https://t.co/ipD6kpcYbH pic.twitter.com/ijqSzINql1
— TNT Sports U.S. PR (@TNTSportsUS) August 6, 2024
Barkley previously voiced his concerns about the potential loss of NBA on TNT and stated that, even if TNT retained the rights to broadcast the show, he was placing his mic down. The popular show, Inside the NBA features talking heads Shaquille O’Neal, Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson. The show has been on TNT since its inception in 1988. One of the most-watched sports programs, it has taken home 18 Sports Emmy Awards in over 30 years on the air.
However, the NBA renewed its partnership with The Walt Disney Company and signed new contracts with NBCUniversal and Amazon. But, the league’s deal with Warner Bros. Discovery will conclude after the upcoming basketball season, following unsuccessful last-minute negotiations. Warner Bros. Discovery has threatened to sue the NBA.
