Ernie Johnson, the longtime host of TNT’s “Inside the NBA,” announced Wednesday that he will leave the popular basketball program after the current season, bringing an end to more than three decades as one of the most recognizable figures in sports broadcasting.

Johnson, 70, shared the news in a video posted to social media, explaining that he believes the time has come to turn the page after years of hosting the show alongside former NBA stars Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal.

“Just to be clear, I’m not retiring,” Johnson said. “Just cutting back… So this is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page. And I’ll forever cherish every chapter we have written with ‘Inside the NBA.’”

Johnson also acknowledged that health concerns involving his heart in recent years have influenced his decision to slow down and prioritize time with his family.

“I just want to slow down a bit,” he said.

Johnson has been the steady presence anchoring “Inside the NBA,” a program widely recognized for combining basketball analysis with humor, spirited arguments and the unpredictable chemistry among its hosts. His role has often involved balancing Barkley’s outspoken commentary, Smith’s analysis, and O’Neal’s humor while keeping the show moving.

His influence, however, has extended beyond basketball. Johnson has spoken openly about his Christian faith throughout his career, occasionally using his public platform to discuss the importance of faith and prayer regardless of political differences.

In a previously circulated video discussing presidential elections, Johnson explained that his religious convictions remain constant regardless of who occupies the White House.

“From one election to the next, I don’t know who’s gonna be in the Oval Office, but I always know who’s on the throne,” Johnson said. “I’m a Christian.”

He added, “Scripture tells us to pray for our leaders. I’m gonna pray for Donald Trump.”

The remarks drew attention because Johnson emphasized prayer and his religious beliefs rather than partisan conflict. His willingness to discuss his faith has become another part of his public identity alongside his work as a sports broadcaster.

Johnson’s announcement also comes as questions surround the future of the program’s familiar lineup. Barkley has indicated that this could be his final season on the show as well, potentially marking a major transition for a program whose appeal has been built around the chemistry of its longtime hosts.

Barkley offered an emotional tribute to Johnson on Wednesday night, praising his leadership and character.

“You’ve been our unquestionable leader,” Barkley said.

Barkley also recalled that when people ask whether Johnson is as good a person as he appears on television, his response is straightforward: “Man, he’s better than that.”

Johnson’s departure will leave a significant gap in a program that has become a fixture of NBA coverage. His experience, steady presence, and ability to manage the show’s lively personalities helped distinguish “Inside the NBA” from conventional studio broadcasts.

While Johnson has made clear that he is not retiring from broadcasting altogether, his decision to step away from the program marks the end of a defining chapter in his career. His final season will give viewers an opportunity to reflect on his decades of work and the relationships that helped make the show a staple for basketball fans.

The program will face the challenge of moving forward without the longtime host who has served as its central figure for more than 30 years. For Johnson, however, the next chapter will mean a reduced workload and more time with his family, while leaving open the possibility of continuing other broadcasting work.