A defining chapter in sports broadcasting is coming to a close as the iconic “Inside the NBA” crew prepares to transition from TNT to ESPN after nearly four decades of memorable commentary. The final TNT broadcast was an emotional farewell that celebrated the team’s incredible legacy.

Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley - a quartet that has become synonymous with basketball commentary - will continue their partnership at ESPN, maintaining the chemistry that has made them beloved by fans. During their last TNT sign-off, Johnson struggled to hold back tears as he delivered his final trademark line: “Thanks for watching us. It’s the NBA on TNT”.

The transition marks the end of an 11-year media rights deal worth at least $76 billion, which will redistribute NBA broadcasting across multiple networks including ABC, ESPN, NBC, and Amazon Prime Video. ABC will now handle the NBA Finals, signaling a significant shift in sports media landscape.

Shaquille O’Neal captured the team’s resilient spirit during the broadcast, declaring, “Even though the name changes, the engine is still the same. We’re not coming to mess around… we’re taking over”. The sentiment was echoed by Charles Barkley, who expressed profound gratitude for the opportunities TNT provided him.

Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle added an unexpected tribute during the Eastern Conference finals, spontaneously congratulating TNT on their “fabulous, unbelievable run”. The broadcast also honored numerous past and current sports commentators who contributed to TNT’s rich broadcasting history.

As the team prepares for their next chapter, many of TNT’s production crew have already secured positions with new networks, a testament to their exceptional work. Kevin Harlan perhaps best captured the moment’s spirit, emphasizing gratitude over sadness: “Our hearts are full of gratitude… It has been an honor. It has been a privilege”.

For sports fans and broadcasting enthusiasts, this transition represents more than a network change - it’s the evolution of a cultural institution that has defined NBA commentary for generations.