Ernie Johnson to Step Away from Inside the NBA After 37 Years 2026

Ernie Johnson, the beloved host of Inside the NBA, has announced he will step away from the show at the end of the current season after 37 years in the role. Johnson made the announcement on social media on Wednesday, marking the end of an era for one of the most popular studio shows in American sports.

In a heartfelt message, Johnson said, “This is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page, and I’ll forever cherish every chapter we have written with Inside the NBA. And lastly, I just want to say thanks to you. Thanks for your loyalty, for your love, for your support, and on this day, for your understanding.”

The 70-year-old cited health concerns and a desire to spend more time with his wife and grandchildren as reasons for his decision. He revealed he had undergone bypass surgery 14 months ago, adding to a series of health issues he has faced during his career.

Why Ernie Johnson Is Stepping Away from Inside the NBA

Johnson’s decision comes after a long history of health challenges. In 2003, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and he missed presenting duties during the 2018 MLB playoffs due to blood clots in his legs. The bypass surgery 14 months ago was a significant factor in his choice to prioritize family and well-being.

“I want to spend time with my wife and grandchildren,” Johnson said, emphasizing that this is not a farewell but a new chapter. His openness about his health struggles has endeared him to fans and colleagues alike, and his departure will leave big shoes to fill.

The Legacy of Ernie Johnson on Inside the NBA

Johnson joined Inside the NBA in 1990 and has been the steady hand guiding the show alongside arguably the most popular panel of analysts in US sports: former NBA stars Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal. Under his stewardship, the show has won 19 Sports Emmys, a testament to its unique blend of analysis and entertainment.

In 2025, the show moved from its longtime home on Turner networks to ABC and ESPN, marking a new era for the program. Johnson’s ability to manage the playful banter of his co-hosts while keeping the focus on basketball has been a key ingredient in the show’s success.

• 37 years as host of Inside the NBA
• 19 Sports Emmys won during his tenure
• Health challenges: non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (2003), blood clots (2018), bypass surgery (2024)
• Works alongside Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal
• Show moved to ABC and ESPN in 2025

What This Means for the Future of Inside the NBA

Johnson’s departure coincides with Charles Barkley’s announcement that he will retire from the show at the end of this season. The loss of both Johnson and Barkley will fundamentally change the dynamic of Inside the NBA, which has thrived on their chemistry and camaraderie.

The show’s move to ABC and ESPN in 2025 already signaled a transition, and now the program faces the challenge of reinventing itself without its longtime host and one of its most outspoken analysts. Fans will be watching closely to see who steps into these iconic roles. The background to this story is set out in NWSL 2027 Schedule: Early Start, World Cup Break Announced. A related thread runs through Celebrity: latest articles. Earlier coverage in King Charles to Discuss Slavery Legacy at Commonwealth Summit shows how the argument developed.

Reactions and Tributes

While the article does not include specific reactions from colleagues or fans, Johnson’s announcement has undoubtedly resonated across the sports world. His humility, professionalism, and warmth have made him one of the most respected figures in sports broadcasting. A closer look at the same subject appears in Gilgeous-Alexander in Tears as Jalen Williams Suffers Gruesome Leg. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Inside Trump's Head: Why Journalists Wallow in Trump Gunk 24/7. The same theme surfaces in TNT Sports Nears UK Rights for England's Australia White-Ball Tour, which takes a different angle.

As Johnson said, “This is by no means the end.” His legacy will continue to influence the show and the industry, and his fans will cherish the memories he created over nearly four decades. Context on how this played out before sits in Telefónica Pays €1.65B to Offer Full LaLiga on Movistar.