Ernie Johnson set to hang up his NBA microphone after this season

Longtime “Inside the NBA” host Ernie Johnson announced Wednesday that this season behind the desk will be his last, ending a career that made him one of the most prominent voices of pro basketball.Johnson thanked show staff and co-hosts Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley, calling his “Inside the NBA” gig as the ultimate “get-to” position for the past 37 years.“I’ve long described it as a ‘get-to job.’ I’m still amazed that I get to do this for a living,” Johnson said.“It’s been an honor to share so many nights, decades actually, at the desk with my brothers — Kenny, Charles and Shaq — and with our production crews who are so talented and devoted.

And I so appreciate the leadership at TNT and ESPN for allowing the show to continue.”"Inside the NBA" host Ernie Johnson with analysts Kenny Smith, center, and Charles Barkley in 2010.Erik S.Lesser / APAt age 70, Johnson said the homework he needs to do for every show had become enough a burden to make 2027 the year to step away.The host has been fighting heart disease for at least two years and underwent bypass surgery 14 months ago.

He also was previously diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, in 2003, and prostate cancer in 2019.“So why now?” Johnson said.“Total honesty here.

I’ve always prided myself on my preparation.The hours I put in every day, getting ready for the next show.

I’ve always loved that part of my job.But I’ve always vowed that if that ever became more of a challenge than it is a joy, then I’ll know it’s time to step away.”For SubscribersFOR SUBSCRIBERSCruise company had troubled history before abandoning passengers in CambodiaFOR SUBSCRIBERSHow French student protests over schools escalated into nationwide riotsFOR SUBSCRIBERSTrump says Alaska’s Democratic Senate candidate should be prosecuted over Dan Sullivan ballot disputeFOR SUBSCRIBERSElection betting odds became less accurate as primar...