Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Charles Barkley worryingly reveals ICONIC ‘Shaq, Kenny, Ernie, and Chuck’ band could break up

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Gerard Crispin | Last updated 5/4/24

The Inside the NBA halftime show hosted by Ernie Johnson alongside three analysts, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley , and Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith might come to an end. As TNT’s contract with the NBA will be expiring soon, the iconic Crew could eventually break apart. However, the decision for the same is yet to be announced.

On the other hand, Charles Barkley, who signed a 10-year deal with the broadcast has the chance to become a free agent if TNT goes on to lose NBA TV rights, whereas Ernie Johnson has decided to stay with Turner Network Television regardless of the upcoming decision. In a recent episode of the Dan Patrick show, Barkley explained his decision to become a free agent.

I love TNT, I hope we keep it... I want to be a free agent if we lose to NBA. And they said, 'No way'... I said guys, 'I am not signing new contract unless I can be a free agent in two years.'. Now, I want to make it clear, I love TNT, I love everybody in TNT and they've been great to me. But, I don't wanna be in limbo if we lose to NBA, that wouldn't be fair to me. Charles Barkley said on Dan Patrick Show.

Charles Barkley told us that if TNT loses #NBA TV rights, he'll become a free agent. He's unsure about "Inside the NBA" moving to another network because the show wouldn't be the same without Ernie Johnson. Ernie has said he isn't leaving Turner.

A decision is expected today. pic.twitter.com/MRMnjBFDf1
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) May 3, 2024

The show is a fan favorite and has been on the air for almost 35 years. Barkley joined the team in 2000 with Kenny and Ernie Johnson, as the three handled the halftime and post-game show. On the other hand, Shaq joined the Crew back in 2011 following his retirement.

Charles Barkley is in a safe spot if TNT loses NBA TV rights

While Barkley and Ernie have their backup plans working the way that they’ve wanted, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny have not revealed any such decision about their future in sports media. Chuck can opt-out and look to explore his worth as a free agent, as the Hall of Famer will be looking at a much bigger amount this time.

Barkley had signed a 10-year $100 million with TNT, though if Chuck decides to go elsewhere, he can expect a multi-year nine-figure contract. Whereas for Shaq, the Diesel is already worth over $500 million. It would be saddening to see the group split after decades of worthy entertainment and hot takes, while also displaying the funniest moments in the league as well as on the show.

It will be interesting to see the upcoming decision, as the league will announce soon. Until then, NBA on TNT will be airing its possible last few episodes till the end of the postseason.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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