Following the deal that the NBA struck on Wednesday that cut TNT out and brought Amazon in, “Inside the NBA” analyst and host Charles Barkley had some things to say about the deal on X.
“Clearly the NBA has wanted to break up with us from the beginning. I’m not sure TNT ever had a chance. TNT Matched the money, but the league knows Amazon and these tech companies are the only ones willing to pay for the rights when they double in the future. The NBA didn’t want to piss them off.”
“It’s a sad day when owners and commissioners choose money over the fans. It just sucks.”
These frustrations are voiced by many as the loss of TNT coverage of the NBA means that the 2024-25 season will be the last season for “Inside the NBA.” A beloved show, there was truly magic when the “Inside the NBA” was playing, and the loss of that will be felt in the 2025-26 season.
Barkley had this to say about TNT and the team:
“I just want to thank everyone who has been at Turner for the last 24 years. They are the best people and the most talented and they deserve better. I also want to thank the NBA and its fans — the best fans in sports. We’re going to give you everything we have next season.”
Barkley has said that this next season will be his last season on television.
TNT has made statements regarding the deal, and are looking to pursue legal action in order to keep their ability to broadcast the NBA.
