WATCH: Charles Barkley makes legendary sports broadcaster Ernie Johnson emotional after revealing Hall-of-Fame news

Charles Barkley surprised Ernie Johnson earlier this year about his induction to the Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

WATCH: Charles Barkley makes legendary sports broadcaster Ernie Johnson emotional after revealing Hall-of-Fame news

Ernie Johnson and Charles Barkley (via TNT Broadcast)

The 2023 Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame welcomed Ernie Johnson. Ernie hosted TNT’s “Inside the NBA” since 1989. Longtime broadcast partner Charles Barkley, whom Johnson affectionately calls “Chuckster,” informed Johnson of the news live on the set for Thursday’s eighth episode of “The Match” in Las Vegas. The news shocked Johnson to hear the news from Barkley.

The event at the Manhattan Hilton Midtown is being held to honor those who have contributed to the sports broadcasting industry’s extraordinary success to date. In June, they brought this to his attention during “The Match” on Capital One. As Ernie prepares for tonight’s induction ceremony, let’s remember his shocked reaction upon hearing the news.

YouTube video

This is what Charles Barkley said:

FS Video
 Can I say something, Ernie? It's an honor and a privilege to congratulate Ernie Johnson on about Ernie going into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Charles Barkley to Ernie Johnson

Ernie Johnson responded, looking extremely shocked. This is what he replied:

 Get out of here. Chuckster, what are you talking about?
Ernie Johnson via TNT Broadcast of The Match

Ernie claimed to have worked in broadcasting for over 40 years and 34 years with Warner Bros. Discovery Sports. Since 1990, he has served as TNT’s Inside the NBA host. He also contributes to TBS’s springtime coverage of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament and Major League Baseball.

Shaquille O’Neal praises Ernie Johnson

Shaquille O’Neal’s relaxed demeanor never fails to draw the attention of NBA fans. In addition to showcasing his cooperative nature, the 7’1 star frequently uses Instagram to express his support for various causes. His recent activities demonstrated a similar instance, in which the 51-year-old openly supported his colleague Ernie Johnson from Inside the NBA.

Ernie Johnson and Shaquille O'Neal
Ernie Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal (Credits: GQ)

In an openly laudatory post, Shaq acknowledged the longtime sportscaster as likable in the NBA community. Shaq expressed the 67-year-old’s stellar reputation and paid tribute to Johnson The post read: 

The only guy in the basketball world that has 0 haters.
Shaquille O’Neal via Instagram

Diesel’s open support of the TNT host demonstrated how respectful the NBA player was. As a television voice, his impartiality and open-mindedness have made him a well-known figure in the league. Having worked as a broadcaster for decades, Ernie has received praise from his peers.

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