In a recent interview on the Dan Patrick Show, former NBA player turned TNT analyst Charles Barkley voiced his dissatisfaction with the possibility of his network losing the broadcasting rights for NBA games. With the NBA reportedly finalizing new TV deals with NBC, Amazon, and Disney's ESPN parent company, Barkley directed his anger towards his bosses at Warner Bros. Discovery, including CEO David Zaslav.

Barkley referred to comments made by Zaslav during an investor conference, where he proclaimed, "We don't have to have the NBA" after the merger between Warner Bros. and Discovery in 2022. The outspoken analyst believes that such remarks needlessly riled up NBA commissioner Adam Silver and other high-ranking executives.

Expressing his frustration, Barkley criticized his bosses, labeling them as "clowns" and claiming that they have mishandled the situation. He highlighted the fact that when the merger took place, the first thing his boss said was that they do not need the NBA. However, Barkley strongly disagreed, emphasizing that the network indeed needs the NBA and expressing his disappointment with the current circumstances.

Barkley's concerns extend beyond losing the NBA rights; he also expressed sadness for his colleagues and the behind-the-scenes employees who help make the show Inside the NBA a success. The uncertainty surrounding the future of the show has brought morale down, with Barkley acknowledging the potential loss of employment for himself, Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson.

Although no official announcements have been made, sources within the league and network have indicated that the NBA is finalizing new TV rights deals with NBC, Amazon, and Disney's ESPN parent company. However, the details of these deals remain undisclosed, leaving Barkley and others in the dark about their future with TNT.

In the midst of the uncertainty, Barkley revealed that he has considered an alternative plan. He mentioned having discussions about continuing Inside the NBA through his own production company, potentially selling the show to NBC or Amazon. However, these plans are contingent on the outcome of negotiations between the NBA and the other networks.

Barkley's frustrations were further highlighted when he learned about TNT's recent acquisition of college football broadcasting rights. He expressed disappointment, asserting that the money used for the purchase could have been better spent to retain the NBA rights.

Aside from addressing his professional situation, Barkley also revealed that he has interviewed for a few general manager positions over the years, although he did not disclose the teams involved. He expressed his desire for complete control in such a role and joked about the ability to dismiss multiple staff members before being recognized as the problem.

As the NBA finalizes its new TV deals, the uncertainty continues for Barkley and his colleagues at TNT. While Barkley explores other possibilities to keep Inside the NBA alive, fans anxiously await announcements regarding the future broadcasting rights of NBA games.