Ernie Johnson to Exit Inside the NBA After 36 Seasons

Ernie Johnson announced on Wednesday that he will step down as the host of "Inside the NBA" at the conclusion of the current season. The Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer made the announcement via social media, explaining that the decision was made because it is simply time to move on.

Johnson, who is 70 years old, clarified that he is not retiring from broadcasting but rather reducing his workload. He described the move as a turning of the page rather than an end, stating that he will cherish every chapter written with the show.

The six-time Sports Emmy Award winner noted that he has dealt with heart issues in recent years. However, he stated that health concerns are not the primary reason for his departure from the TNT Sports program. Instead, he said he wants to slow down a bit.

Johnson has been a fixture in sports media for decades. He joined Turner Sports in 1989 and has hosted "Inside the NBA" since 1990. He expressed gratitude to his TNT Sports and ESPN crews for their support over the years, as well as to the viewers who have shown loyalty and love for the program.

Following his exit from "Inside the NBA," Johnson plans to continue his career by covering the NCAA men's basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports. He thanked his audience for their understanding on the day of the announcement, marking the close of a long tenure with the broadcast team.