Inside the NBA: Continuing Its Legacy on ESPN with Shaquille ONeal and Charles Barkley

The iconic NBA studio show "Inside the NBA" is embarking on a new chapter in its journey, as it transitions to ESPN for the upcoming season. The show, which has been a staple of the NBA media ecosystem for years, will continue its legacy on a new platform while maintaining its familiar format and spirit.

During an appearance on "The Rich Eisen Show," Shaquille O'Neal expressed his confidence in the show's ability to adapt to its new home at ESPN. He emphasized that neither he nor Charles Barkley will ever change, while praising the professionalism of Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson. O'Neal also hinted at a situation similar to "The Pat McAfee Show," which is also syndicated by ESPN from a different company.

The "Inside the NBA" crew recently wrapped its lengthy run on TNT, where it had become an iconic part of the NBA media ecosystem. When TNT's parent company Warner Bros. Discovery lost its NBA rights, the future of the show was in question until the network cut a deal with ESPN. TNT will continue to independently produce the show while airing it on ESPN, which reportedly plans to give the show its usual timeframe.

Barkley has made it clear that he has no plans to change to fit in better at ESPN, given how much he has blasted some of his future co-workers in recent months. He has also stated that he plans to retire after two more seasons, though he has walked back retirement plans before.

Overall, it seems that "Inside the NBA" will continue to thrive on ESPN, with its beloved hosts and their unique chemistry remaining intact. The show will undoubtedly continue to provide fans with their favorite NBA analysis, commentary, and humor, all while making people laugh and enjoying the game they love.

[Image: A screenshot of the "Inside the NBA" show featuring Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson]