Ernie Johnson announced Wednesday that he's leaving "Inside the NBA" after the 2026-27 season. Draymond Green responded to the iconic broadcaster's decision with a lofty declaration that may perturb Golden State Warriors fans. "He is the best point guard I've ever played with, and that's no disrespect to the great Steph Curry," Green said Wednesday on his podcast.
"Ernie Johnson on a set is as incredible as they come." Of late, Green has appeared frequently on "Inside the NBA." The four-time champion marveled at how seamlessly the host runs the decorated studio show. "He sees everything," Green declared on his "The Draymond Green Show" podcast. "He's like, 'Man, this guy hasn't spoken for a while.
This conversation has gone off the rails a little bit, as it can on that show. Let me rein it back in.'" Johnson began hosting "Inside The NBA" in 1990, the year Green was born, after joining Turner Sports in 1989. The four-time All-Star paid his respects to the "amazing" broadcaster.
"I tip my cap to him heading into his last year," Green said. "Inside the NBA" may lose another beloved panelist. Charles Barkley has previously insisted that he'll step down after the 2026-27 season if Johnson leaves.
Now that Johnson has confirmed his departure, Green believes Barkley "may be serious this time." The Hall of Famer has hinted at retirement before. "When you tie it to Ernie like that, it makes all the more sense," Green said. Green wasn't the only one to congratulate Johnson on ending a legendary run.
NBA Communications shared a statement from Commissioner Adam Silver. "His brilliance as a broadcaster is matched by his character, compassion and generosity, which have been evident throughout his 37 years as host of ‘Inside the NBA.’ We are grateful for Ernie’s extraordinary impact on our league and look forward to celebrating him during his final season."
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