70: Ernie Johnson says 'it's just time' to step back from Inside the NBA

Ernie Johnson announced on Wednesday that he will step down as the host of “Inside the NBA” when the current season concludes. The decision marks the end of a thirty-six year tenure with the show, which he has hosted continuously since 1990.

Johnson, who is 70 years old, explained his reasoning in a social media post. He stated, “It’s just time.” He clarified that the move is not a full retirement but a reduction in his workload. “This is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page,” he wrote. He added that he intends to continue working, specifically noting plans to cover the NCAA men’s basketball tournament for CBS and Turner Sports.

The Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer addressed rumors regarding his health. While he acknowledged dealing with heart issues in recent years, he specified that this condition is not the primary reason for his departure from the NBA broadcast team. “I just want to slow down a bit,” he added.

Johnson has been a fixture in sports media for decades. He joined Turner Sports in 1989 and has won six Sports Emmy Awards during his career. In his post, he directed thanks to the crews at TNT Sports and ESPN, as well as the audience. “I just want to say thanks to you. Thanks for your loyalty, for your love, for your support. And on this day, for your understanding,” he said.

The announcement coincides with the latter part of the 2026 NBA season. No successor has been named yet, and Johnson will remain with the network for the remainder of the year. His final appearance as the lead host is scheduled for the conclusion of the current schedule.