Inside the NBA team finds new home for 2025-26 season

The iconic Inside the NBA studio show, featuring the beloved lineup of Ernie Johnson Jr., Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal has found a new home. The show will now transition to ESPN and ABC starting with the 2025-26 NBA season. This move is part of a groundbreaking settlement between Warner Bros Discovery and the NBA, confirmed by ESPN on Monday.

Despite Warner Bros Discovery losing its NBA broadcasting rights, the popular show will remain under its production through TNT Sports and continue to air from its Atlanta studio, except when travelling for special coverage. ESPN announced that Inside the NBA will enhance its pregame, halftime, and postgame offerings during marquee events, including the NBA Finals, Conference Finals, Playoffs, Christmas Day games, and Opening Week.

In a statement, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition. "Inside the NBA is universally recognized as one of the best and most culturally impactful shows in sports,” Pitaro said. “Adding their chemistry and expertise to our NBA coverage elevates ESPN as the ultimate destination for basketball fans."

End of an era for NBA broadcast!

Charles Barkley’s earlier contract extension with Warner Bros Discovery ensures the quartet's continuity, a fact that delighted fans and industry insiders alike. TNT Sports CEO Luis Silberwasser echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are thrilled to continue producing Inside the NBA for ESPN and ABC. This collaboration ensures fans can still experience the magic of this iconic show."

The settlement also grants Warner Bros Discovery’s subsidiaries, including TNT Sports and Bleacher Report, a global content license for NBA coverage for 11 years without a rights fee. Furthermore, Warner Bros Discovery will maintain its relationship with the NBA’s digital platforms, such as NBA.com, for the next five seasons.

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While TNT Sports’ NBA broadcast era in the U.S. will conclude after this season, the company will retain international broadcasting rights in regions like Latin America and Poland. Additionally, TNT Sports is expanding into college sports and tennis, broadcasting Big 12 games and two College Football Playoff matchups, as well as acquiring rights to the French Open and Big East basketball.