Charles Barkley Expresses Concerns Over “Inside the NBA” Scheduling at ESPN
In a candid appearance on The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, NBA legend Charles Barkley voiced his frustration regarding the scheduling of “Inside the NBA” on ESPN. With an upcoming exclusive agreement between ESPN and TNT for the show starting in the 2025-26 season, Barkley has some thoughts on the current situation.
Barkley’s Concerns
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Limited Air Time: Barkley pointed out that the show has only aired four times on ESPN in the last three months. He expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “I don’t like that at all.” He emphasized that both he and co-hosts Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson expected more frequent appearances.
- Working Conditions: Barkley shared his love for watching basketball but is not interested in excessive appearances across multiple ESPN platforms, including secondary channels. He quipped, “I’m not gonna be doing all that. But I wish we had been on more during the first half of the season.”
Upcoming Schedule
For fans anticipating more of Barkley and his colleagues, “Inside the NBA” is scheduled to air on:
- Saturday, Jan. 24
- Wednesday, Jan. 28
- Saturday, Jan. 31
Barkley noted, “So they’re gonna start making up some of the days,” indicating a shift in scheduling.
Looking Ahead
Despite his frustrations, Barkley acknowledged the cooperation from the ESPN team, adding, “The guys at ESPN have been great,” while also noting the importance of upcoming scheduling in the latter half of the season.
Potential Job Security Issues
In a light-hearted moment, Barkley joked about the consequences of his candid remarks, stating that if he were to be dismissed for calling his peers “idiots, punks, fools, and jackasses,” ESPN would be on the hook for the remaining seven years of his contract. “If I can do something just a little bit stupid so they have to fire me, they’ll have to pay me for the whole seven years,” he mused.
ESPN’s Exclusive Agreement
Under the new agreement, “Inside the NBA” will continue to provide comprehensive coverage surrounding critical live events, including:
- Pregame, Halftime, and Postgame Coverage of the NBA Finals on ABC
- Coverage for Conference Finals and NBA Playoffs
Notably, TNT Sports will maintain independent production of “Inside the NBA” from its Atlanta studios throughout the duration of the contract.
For more details about Barkley’s exciting journey with ESPN and TNT, you can explore sources like ESPN and learn more about the NBA from their official website NBA.
Conclusion
As the transition of “Inside the NBA” to ESPN approaches, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing the upcoming schedule and Barkley’s continued involvement. With engaging basketball analysis and entertaining personalities, the show is set to evolve while retaining its core essence. Stay tuned for a thrilling season ahead!
