In a significant development for NBA fans, “Inside the NBA” will continue to air on ESPN and ABC starting next season as part of a settlement between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and the NBA.
The popular studio show, which has been a staple of TNT Sports since 1988, will now be available on two additional networks, ensuring that fans won’t miss out on their favorite post-game analysis.
The settlement comes after WBD sued the NBA in New York state court following the league’s decision not to accept WBD’s matching offer for one of the packages in its new 11-year media rights deal, which begins with the 2025-26 season. Despite losing the rights to air NBA games in the United States, WBD will continue to produce “Inside the NBA” from Atlanta, except when the show goes on the road.
The show’s beloved hosts, Ernie Johnson Jr., Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal, will remain with the show, bringing their unique blend of humor and expertise to viewers. The quartet has been a major draw for the show, and their continued presence is sure to be a hit with fans.
“Inside the NBA” is expected to air during key moments on the league’s calendar, including opening night, Christmas Day, the playoffs, and the NBA Finals. It will also likely be featured on Saturday nights during the second half of the season when ABC has a prime-time package of games.
The settlement also grants TNT Sports, Bleacher Report, and House of Highlights a global content license for NBA content with no rights fee for the next 11 years. WBD will continue its relationship with the league’s digital operations, including NBA.com, for five seasons.
While TNT Sports will no longer air NBA games in the United States, it will retain rights to air a full package of games in select countries, including Latin America and Poland. Additionally, TNT Sports will begin showing Big 12 football and men’s basketball games next season as part of a sublicense with ESPN.
This settlement ensures that “Inside the NBA” will continue to be a key part of the NBA viewing experience, reaching a wider audience and maintaining its status as one of the most popular sports shows on television.
