Charles Barkley made a major announcement after the Dallas Mavericks staved off elimination in the NBA Finals on Thursday.
Barkley said that he’ll be retiring from television after the 2024-25 season. It’ll be his last season on TNT alongside Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson.
“I ain’t going nowhere other than TNT. But, I have made the decision myself- no matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television,” Barkley said. “I just want to say thank you to my NBA family. You guys have been great to me and my heart is full with joy and gratitude but I’m going to pass the baton at the end of next year.”
🚨 Charles Barkley: “I ain’t going nowhere other than TNT. But, I have made the decision the myself- no matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television… I’m not going to another network… Next year, I’m going to just retire after 25 years.” 🚨 pic.twitter.com/E966rKo7X4
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 15, 2024
Barkley has been a staple on TNT’s “Inside the NBA” and has made a lot of people laugh over the years. His commentary with Shaq has especially been hilarious.
Fans are already sad that Barkley will be hanging it up after next year.
“Hall of Fame player. Beyond worthy of Hall of Fame as a broadcaster. Have not known the NBA in my lifetime w/o Chuck. Don’t really want to,” one tweet read.
“Damn. This sucks for us the viewer, but Chuck is forever a legend and deserves to go out his own way,” another tweet read.
“Nothing will ever compare to the Shaq/Chuck duels on Inside the NBA. The sports media landscape continues to be watered down,” another tweet read.
“There is nobody else like Charles Barkley, and there will never be another. Inside the NBA is always must-see TV – but next season will be can’t miss,” another fan tweeted.
Here’s to Barkley’s final ride on TNT being one to remember.
