The NBA is currently negotiating its future TV media rights with a group of major sports networks, but amidst the madness, TNT may be squeezed out of the picture. If so, Charles Barkley could find himself without a place to provide his analysis on the NBA.
While TNT is still making a last-ditch effort to retain future media rights, it could be looking at a future without Barkley involved in their legendary Inside the NBA crew.
The 61-year-old has been involved in several other business ventures throughout his career, but now the next move he’s eyeing is retirement.
Following the Dallas Mavericks’ 38-point blowout win over the Boston Celtics in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, Barkley spoke about his future and how close he is to retiring from television. TNT may not have to worry about another network poaching one of their most popular sports personalities, but they also won’t get to enjoy Barkley’s work for very long.
“I ain’t going nowhere other than TNT. But I have made the decision that, no matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television. And I just want to say thank you to my NBA family. You guys have been great to me. My heart is full with joy and gratitude.”
Charles Barkley announcing intent to retire after 2024-25 NBA season
BREAKING: After 25 years, Charles Barkley says he’s going to retire from TV after next season.
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) June 15, 2024
“No matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television.”pic.twitter.com/HzP4MfKH7G
No matter what happens with TNT’s media rights, which won’t take effect until 2025-26, it looks like Barkley won’t be around to be part of their future NBA coverage.
Barkley quickly threw his support behind a number of possible replacements, including Jamal Crawford, Vince Carter, and Steve Smith. We’ll see if TNT feels the same way once Barkley walks off into the sunset, but first, they have to secure future NBA media rights.
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