Charles Barkley's Stern Message Ignites Intense Backlash Against NBA

The NBA recently announced that TNT will be heading into its final year under contract in the 2024–25 season. Their recent agreement with Amazon and NBC means the end of the legendary show "Inside the NBA," featuring Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith.

While the news was announced on July 24, Barkley released an official statement on July 26, condemning the NBA's premeditated decision to end the deal.

"Clearly, the NBA has 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."

The league legend was clearly disappointed by the NBA's decision, calling out the league for choosing money over the opportunity to please their fans. He believes the decision stemmed from a long-term plan with major tech companies.

Following the news, fans threw shade at the NBA's decision, calling out the league and its commissioner, Adam Silver.

"NBA will always choose money over the fans," said one fan.

"Adam Silver has ruined the fun of watching basketball," said another fan with two broken heart emojis.

"Adam Silver does not care about NBA fans," commented another.

Barkley joined the NBA on TNT crew in 2000. He signed an extension with the network just two years ago, inking a 10-year, $100-million contract.

The 61-year-old has been connected with the NBA for years, having played 16 seasons in the league. He ended his playing career as an NBA MVP in 1993, an eleven-time NBA All-Star, and a five-time All-NBA First Team member.

While Barkley mentioned that the 2024–25 season would be his last year on television, planning on retiring after TNT's final contract year, many NBA fans were hopeful for his return.

Barkley was disheartened by the NBA's settlement, but as he explained, the final decision may have been made years before the announcement.

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