Photo: NBA on TNT/YouTube

ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro played a pivotal role in securing the rights to bring Inside the NBA to the network beginning with the 2025-26 season.

The iconic show, which has long been a staple of Turner Sports, will continue to be produced in Atlanta by Turner and retain full editorial control.

This approach mirrors Pitaro’s previous strategies, such as partnerships with Pat McAfee and Peyton Manning, where external production is paired with ESPN’s platform and branding.

The deal, notable for its unique structure, does not involve direct cash transactions. Instead, Turner will annually receive broadcast rights to 13 Big 12 football games and 15 men’s basketball games in return.

ABC/ESPN will oversee advertising sales and sponsorships for Inside the NBA while incorporating ESPN branding into the set design.

The agreement’s duration is tied to the participation of Inside the NBA’s renowned hosts – Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith. Their willingness to remain with the program will likely determine how long the arrangement lasts.

When the partnership begins, ESPN will host three distinct NBA-related studio shows. NBA Countdown and NBA Today are expected to continue airing on ESPN, while Inside the NBA will primarily appear on ABC, ensuring a broader audience for the show.

The NBA also had a vested interest in preserving Inside the NBA, a program widely regarded as an integral part of the league’s media presence.

Sources indicate that the NBA actively engaged with both ESPN and Turner during negotiations and strongly supported the deal, emphasizing their desire to “save the show.”

This collaboration underscores the cultural and entertainment value of Inside the NBA to the league and its fans.