Ernie Johnson to Step Down as Host of Inside the NBA

Ernie Johnson announced Wednesday that he will no longer host Inside the NBA, ending a 36-year run on the studio show. The 70-year-old broadcaster said the decision follows recent heart issues that prompted him to reconsider his workload.

Johnson, who has worked in television for more than 50 years, began hosting the program in 1990 after joining Turner Sports in 1989. He previously worked as a news anchor, a role he started in 1979. His departure marks the end of an era for a show that has featured a revolving cast of analysts for decades.

In a social media post, Johnson stated, "It's just time," while clarifying that he is not retiring from sports media. He will continue to cover the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports. "Just to be clear, I'm not retiring," he said. "Just cutting back.. So this is by no means the end. It's just a turning of the page."

Johnson explained that his health is currently stable, but the experience led him to realize he needed to slow down. He added, "I just want to slow down a bit." He described the show as a part of the NBA that is as integral as the basketball itself.

The show's current cast includes Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O'Neal. During Wednesday night's broadcast, Barkley became emotional while addressing the news. He called Johnson his "unquestionable leader" and praised his character. "Even though I knew it was coming, it's still hard, brother," Barkley said.

Barkley also announced that this would be his final season on the program, a claim he has made previously. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro issued a statement calling Johnson "one of sports media's most respected and beloved figures." Pitaro noted that Johnson helped create one of the most iconic studio shows in sports and that the network looks forward to celebrating his contributions throughout the season.

Johnson remains a member of the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. While he will say his final goodbyes to the cast and audience in the coming weeks, he will stay active in broadcasting. The show will continue to air with its remaining cast members for the rest of the season.