Ernie Johnson says 2026-27 season will be his last as 'Inside the NBA' host

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 26: Ernie Johnson presents the Sager Strong Award during the 2017 NBA Awards Live on TNT on June 26, 2017 in New York, New York. 27111_002
Kevin Mazur / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty

Legendary sports broadcaster Ernie Johnson announced Wednesday that the 2026-27 campaign will be his last season as host of "Inside the NBA."

Johnson is in his 37th season hosting the popular halftime and postgame NBA show.

"This will be my last season," Johnson said in a video posted on social media. "Totally my decision. It's just time."

The 70-year-old reiterated that he isn't retiring, just stepping back to spend more time with his family. He plans to continue his contributions to March Madness and other projects for TNT and CBS.

Johnson added that heart issues he's dealt with over the last two years are part of the reason for his decision to step away.

Former players Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O'Neal have served as Johnson's longtime partners on "Inside the NBA."

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