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Charles Barkley Shows Loyalty to Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson With an NBA Career Altering Decision

Published 07/29/2022, 8:30 PM EDT

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When it comes to NBA television, TNT is by far one of the most popular. A crew made up of former NBA greats, the award winners have served the league for decades. However, recently huge news surrounded them as Charles Barkley was in talks with the LIV golf tournament. After making a popular name for himself on the show, he flirted with the idea of switching to a new lane. But he has decided he won’t be leaving Shaquille O’Neal and the TNT crew.

After a career filled with milestones, the Round Mound of Rebound has decided to stay connected with basketball. The former NBA MVP joined Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson in 2000 to start his second NBA chapter as an analyst. Likewise, in his 22 years, Barkley has arguably become one of the funniest personalities on television. Moreover, when Shaquille O’Neal joined the crew, their banter won over everyone.

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And it seems Barkley just can’t let that life go behind. Hence, he made it clear that his TV career will end with TNT.

Charles Barkley is staying with Shaquille O’Neal and TNT

The NBA world knows Charles Barkley for his ruthless analysis of the game. Combining humor with tough love, the award-winning analyst quickly rose to fame. The Phoenix Suns legend however also loves his golf. So after playing a pro-am game, Barkley met with the CEO of LIV Golf.

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It all seemed to be crashing down for the TNT crew as they were left wondering about Barkley’s future. However, he set their minds at ease after revealing his plan to stick with TNT for the rest of his career.

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Charles Barkley has created an environment in TNT that he likely won’t get anywhere else. The game of basketball gave him everything. And he wanted to do it justice. He spoke about staying with TNT and said, “I wish those guys great success and nothing but the best. But, in my best interest, and being fair to Turner, because Turner and basketball have given me every single thing in my life. It is best for me to move on and I’m staying with Turner for the rest of my TV career.” 

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The entire NBA on TNT crew has arguably revolutionized how to analyze the NBA. Not only do they speak the business, but Shaquille O’Neal and co. are perhaps the best at their jobs.

What do you think of Charles Barkley’s decision? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
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Edited by:

Veer Badani