Charles Barkley Blasts NBA in Official Statement After TNT Decision

Earlier this week, TNT announced that it matched the $1.8 billion per year offer extended by Amazon in hopes of retaining the company's long-standing media rights deal with the NBA.

Despite this offer from the Warner Bros-owned company, the NBA elected to stick with Amazon's original offer — marking an end to the beloved Inside the NBA program on TNT.

Inside the NBA has been on the air for decades, featuring Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny "The Jet" Smith and Ernie Johnson.

Barkley released an official statement regarding the NBA's decision on Friday.

"Clearly the NBA wanted to break up with us from the beginning," Barkley said. "I'm not sure TNT ever had a chance. TNT matched the money, but the league knows Amazon and these tech companies are the only ones willing to pay for the rights when they double in the future. The NBA didn't want to piss them off.

"It's a sad day when owners and commissioners choose money over the fans. It just sucks."

Barkley announced his decision to retire from broadcasting at the conclusion of the 2024-25 NBA season, in large part due to TNT's expiring contract with the NBA.

"I just want to thank everyone who has been at Turner for the past 24 years," Barkley continued. "They are the best people and the most talented and they deserve better. I also want to thank the NBA and its fans — the best fans in sports. We're going to give you everything we have next season."