Charles Barkley has announced that he will not be retiring and will instead be staying with TNT Sports even after it loses the NBA following the upcoming season, as confirmed by TNT on Tuesday.
Barkley will be honoring his 10-year, $210 million contract, currently in its third season.
“I love my TNT Sports family,” Barkley, 61, stated. “My main focus has always been and will continue to be our people, keeping everyone together for as long as possible.”
“We have an incredible team, the best at what they do,” he added. “I am excited to keep working with them on our current shows and new projects we will create together in the future. This is where I belong.”
Charles Barkley is NOT retiring and is staying with TNT Sports long term, sources tell @AndrewMarchand. pic.twitter.com/8YpcMEfJyM
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 6, 2024
Barkley was a sought-after figure by ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and NBC, who will be commencing their 11-year, $77 billion agreements post next season. In an effort to retain ties with the NBA, TNT Sports is taking legal action against the league after their offer to match one of the NBA’s new television deals with Amazon Prime Video was declined.
Barkley recently expressed to The Athletic that he was open to remaining with TNT Sports if they honored his full payment.
Both parties have now reached an agreement that Barkley will stay put. While TNT Sports is fighting to keep the NBA, Barkley will continue to be involved in their NCAA Tournament coverage alongside CBS and may explore opportunities with other properties, such as the NHL.
The network is also looking to expand its programming on TNT Sports, potentially developing a new studio program around Barkley or keeping the iconic “Inside The NBA” intact even after next year.
“Charles is one of the most beloved and best sportscasters in TV history,” stated TNT Sports chairman Luis Silberwasser. “We are thrilled to have him committed to continuing to showcase his unique talents and entertain fans for years to come.”
“We are constantly growing our sports portfolio, including new properties like the College Football Playoffs, Roland-Garros, NASCAR, BIG EAST college basketball, Mountain West football, among others. Having Charles on board for this journey as we create new content and shows for our fans is fantastic.”
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(Photo: Megan Briggs / Getty Images)