Former NBA player and longtime television analyst Kenny Smith paid tribute to Ernie Johnson following the veteran broadcaster’s retirement announcement.
Smith, who spent years working alongside Johnson on Inside the NBA, credited his colleague with helping establish the program’s successful working environment.
The two-time NBA champion recalled his first impressions of the show and explained that Johnson’s presence immediately made him feel that he was joining something special.
“When I walked in the building, I said, ‘This is a championship,’ and it was because of you, brother.”
Smith compared his experience joining the television program to being part of a championship organization, emphasizing the confidence Johnson gave him from the beginning.
He also reflected on the show’s success over the years, particularly the numerous Emmy Awards it received.
Smith admitted that he initially knew very little about the television industry’s awards or their significance when he began working on the program.
“I didn’t even know what an Emmy was at that time, and I didn’t know what the importance of those things were. Here we are, 40 to 50 Emmys deep in all different categories.”
Inside the NBA became one of the most recognized basketball programs on television, with Johnson hosting discussions alongside Smith, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal.
Over the years, the show received numerous awards for its coverage, analysis and entertainment.
Smith credited Johnson’s attitude and leadership with helping create the environment that contributed to the program’s success.
“Your energy made me feel that way.”
