Sun Oct 12 23:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided press release:

**Headline: “Inside the NBA” Makes ESPN Debut in 2025-26 Season, to Anchor NBA Finals Coverage**

**Bristol, CT** – ESPN has announced that the Emmy-winning “Inside the NBA,” produced by TNT Sports, will be a key component of its NBA coverage beginning in the 2025-26 season. The show, featuring host Ernie Johnson and analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith, will serve as the official pregame, halftime, and postgame show for high-profile NBA events on ESPN and ABC, including the NBA Playoffs and, for the first time, ABC’s exclusive coverage of the NBA Finals.

The show’s ESPN debut is slated for October 22 and 23, coinciding with the opening week of the NBA season. Pregame shows will air from 6-7 p.m. ET on October 22 (ESPN, ESPN2) and from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on October 23 (ESPN), with postgame shows following immediately after the doubleheaders.

“Inside the NBA” will also play a significant role in ESPN and ABC’s coverage of marquee events like the NBA on Christmas Day, NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC, and ABC’s NBA Sunday Showcase. During the playoffs, including the Eastern Conference Finals, the show will air on ESPN and ABC.

Burke Magnus, ESPN President, Content, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “We’re proud that Inside the NBA – one of the most iconic and beloved shows in all of media – will play a leading role in our NBA coverage. Fans should expect the same great show they’re accustomed to watching as it becomes an essential part of the highest-profile events in the NBA, including the NBA Finals.”

ESPN’s Inside the NBA regular season dates and schedule for the 2026 NBA Playoffs will be announced later in the season.

Fans can access ESPN networks and services within the ESPN App, which offers integrated game stats, multiview options, personalized features, and more.

TNT Sports will continue to produce “Inside the NBA” from its Atlanta studios.

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