Charles Barkley, the iconic host of ‘Inside the NBA’, has made a striking declaration that could shake up the sports broadcasting landscape. Amidst the uncertainty surrounding TNT Sports’ future with NBA broadcast rights, Barkley has stated his willingness to reboot the beloved ‘Inside the NBA’ show himself if the network loses its rights.
The revelation came during Barkley’s appearance on the ‘Dan Patrick Show’, where he expressed his discontent with the current morale at TNT, pointing fingers at Warner Bros. Discovery executives for mishandling the situation. Barkley’s frustration is palpable as he watches the network he has called home for years potentially fumble one of its most valuable assets.
“I have my own production company, I would love to do that if if we lose it [NBA rights]. But I have definitely had — actually somebody suggested that to me, to be honest with you, on the internet — ‘so why doesn’t Charles Barkley sign these three, guys four guys total to his production company and sell it?’ I’m like, ‘That’s a great idea.'”
TNT’s potential loss of NBA rights comes as a significant blow to the network, with ESPN, NBC, and Amazon reportedly set to sign a colossal $7.4 billion a year deal. This shift in rights distribution could leave TNT without its flagship NBA programming, a scenario Barkley foresaw and prepared for by including an opt-out clause in his contract.
Barkley’s proactive approach to his career is not new. Known for his outspoken and direct personality, both on and off the court, he has ensured that his association with the NBA will continue, regardless of TNT’s fate. His contract allows him to become a ‘free agent’ should TNT lose its NBA TV rights, giving him the freedom to explore new avenues.
The NBA legend has even considered leveraging his own production company to continue the show’s legacy, a testament to his dedication to the program and its fans. Barkley’s commitment to ‘Inside the NBA’ goes beyond just hosting duties; it’s about preserving a show that has become a staple in the lives of basketball enthusiasts.
