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Charles Barkley, one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting, has decided to stay with TNT despite the network losing its NBA broadcast rights to Amazon, NBC, and Disney. Since 2000, Barkley has served as a studio analyst in TNT so this move comes as a no surprise, even after Barkley initially announced that the 2024 NBA Finals would mark his final year on television. However, in a recent interview, he reversed his decision, choosing to remain with TNT for at least another season, even though "Inside the NBA," the network's flagship show, will be entering its final season. Barkley's decision to stay highlights his loyalty to his colleagues and the legacy they've built together.
Barkley love for TNT
Barkley, who has been an analyst for TNT's coverage of the NBA, NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, NHL, College Football Playoff, and other major sports events, revealed that he turned down significant offers from other networks, reportedly leaving more than $100 million on the table. This commitment to TNT, despite the financial sacrifices, underscores his dedication to the network and his desire to keep the "Inside the NBA" team together as long as possible. Barkley has always been known for his candidness, and this decision is no exception. "But the number one thing for me is my people at TNT to keep their jobs for at least another year."
The amount left by Barkley, although extremely high, does not take away from the contract he signed in 2022. Barkley signed a lucrative 10-year, $210 million contract extension with TNT, which included an option to exit if the network lost its NBA rights, what eventually happened. Despite entertaining offers from other major networks, Barkley ultimately decided to remain with TNT, citing the importance of his colleagues' job security as a key factor in his decision, showing he's team man. He has been a cornerstone of TNT's sports coverage for years, and his continued presence is likely to maintain the network's strong ratings, even as it transitions away from NBA coverage.
Barkley and the NBA
Charles Barkley has been involved in the NBA since 1984, when he was drafted fifth overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, two spots after the Chicago Bulls selected Michael Jordan. In his NBA years Barkley won an MVP award (1993), was the shortest player to lead the league in rebounds (1997) and won two gold medals at Barcelona 1992 with the dream team and Atlanta 1996. So whether or not this turns out to be his last year working with the NBA would be the end of just over 40 years of dedication and professionalism.