End of an Era: ‘Inside the NBA’ Moves to ESPN, But Will It Stay the Same?

After over 30 iconic years on TNT, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson signed off from Inside the NBA for the final time under the TNT banner. The emotional farewell followed the Pacers’ Game 6 win over the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Although the crew will continue their beloved show under ESPN next season, concerns are rising about the show’s future. While production will remain at TNT’s Atlanta studios, ESPN will broadcast it — meaning tighter control and possibly less of the unscripted, candid flair that made the show legendary.

“I think ESPN’s gonna f**k the show up,” said media personality Bill Simmons, warning that changes in ad frequency and creative control could alienate fans and frustrate the hosts.

Simmons pointed to ESPN’s massive NBA media-rights investment as a reason for increased commercial breaks, which could interrupt the show’s signature flow.

Fans now await whether ESPN can preserve the soul of Inside the NBA—or if corporate hands will reshape it beyond recognition.

“I think ESPN is gonna f— this show up.”@BillSimmons explains why he’s not optimistic about the future of ‘Inside the NBA.’ pic.twitter.com/R9zuJvrJoK

— The Ringer (@ringer) June 1, 2025