Vincent Frank
Charles Barkley is among the most-popular sports media personalities in the world. His “NBA on TNT” show has been a major hit throughout the years.
Joined by Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith; it has been a go-to for generations of basketball fans.
It will also now come to a conclusion following the 2024-25 season. The NBA agreed to a new 11-year, $76 billion dollar media rights deal that does not include Turner Sports.
Initially, Amazon Prime outbid TNT to be a part of the package. However, Turner Sports matched said offer earlier in the week. This did not stop the NBA from opting for the Amazon bid, leaving TNT out in the cold.
It has been a major talking point around the basketball world. Why would the NBA do a long-time business partner like Turner Sports dirty? Fans are not happy. Some players are not happy. Sir Charles obviously isn’t happy.
Related: Charles Barkley And Entire ‘NBA On TNT’ Crew Could Be Headed To ESPN Or Amazon Prime
Charles Barkley: “It’s A Sad Day When Owners And Commissioners Choose Money Over Fans”
Barkley released a statement after news of Turner Sports losing NBA coverage became public record. In typical fashion, the Hall of Famer did not hold back.
“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,” Barkley wrote. “It’s a sad day when owners and commissioners choose money over the fans. It just sucks.”
The legendary media personality also thanked fans for their support over the years.
“I just want to thank everybody who has been at Turner the last 24 years. They are the best people and the most talented and they deserve better,” added Barkley. “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.”
Indeed. This is the end of an era.
As for Barkley and the rest of his “NBA on TNT” crew, there is no telling what the future might bring. Chuck announced recently that he was going to retire after the 2024-25 season.
That could very well change depending on the offer he receives from NBA media partners. Said offers will likely start at $20 million per year.