TNT’s long-awaited departure from its NBA coverage finally occurred after the Indiana Pacers defeated the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals. The network’s top talent signed off with emotional farewells, marking a new era for the league.
Ernie Johnson and Kevin Harlan expressed gratitude for their time on TNT, acknowledging the end of an era. “We know how business works,” said Harlan. He will join Amazon’s NBA broadcast team next season, while Harlan announced his own move to Amazon.
Inside the NBA, the network’s flagship show, will now air exclusively on ESPN next season, retaining its cast and production team in Atlanta. Shaquille O’Neal sent a message to ESPN and TNT, saying “We’re not coming to play around.” Charles Barkley expressed excitement for working with ESPN, calling it an honor to join the top sports network.
The move means Inside the NBA will now broadcast through the entirety of the playoffs, including the NBA Finals.
Source: https://frontofficesports.com/as-tnt-nba-era-ends-charles-barkley-calls-espn-move-an-honor