The NBA’s new TV broadcast rights deal will not include Turner Sports, meaning that TNT, TBS, and NBA TV will not have the opportunity to showcase games as they happen. The $76 billion agreement will now have three broadcast partners, with NBC returning for the first time in decades and Amazon Prime continuing its live sports broadcasting efforts. Despite the financial benefits for NBA owners and players, it is a bittersweet moment as TNT’s widely acclaimed “Inside the NBA” show, featuring Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal, will no longer be paired with game broadcasts.
Charles Barkley has decided to stay loyal to Turner Sports and has re-signed with the network, even turning down a significant sum of money to do so. He revealed that he rejected a minimum of $100 million to remain at Turner, citing his concern for the people who work there as his primary motivation. Despite being courted by other networks with lucrative offers, Barkley chose to prioritize the well-being of his colleagues at Turner over financial gain.
Barkley’s decision to remain with Turner Sports has been met with support from the network, which plans to continue working with him regardless of their status with the NBA. Barkley’s long-time partnership with TNT has been a successful one, and the network values his contributions both on and off the air. With or without the NBA, TNT sees a future with Barkley as an integral part of their programming lineup.
As an 11-time All-NBA honoree and All-Star, Charles Barkley has had a successful career on the court, and his transition to broadcasting has been equally impressive. Known for his candid commentary and humor, Barkley has become a fan favorite on “Inside the NBA” alongside his co-hosts. His decision to prioritize the well-being of his colleagues at Turner over financial gain showcases his loyalty and integrity as a person.
The NBA’s new broadcast partners, including NBC and Amazon Prime, will bring new opportunities for fans to watch games and engage with the sport in different ways. While the absence of Turner Sports from the broadcast lineup is disappointing for many fans, the continued presence of Charles Barkley on TNT ensures that viewers will still get to enjoy his unique perspective on the game. Barkley’s decision to put the well-being of his colleagues first reflects his values as a person, and his commitment to Turner Sports speaks to the strong relationships he has built over the years.
