As the NBA approaches new broadcast rights, its media environment could shift forever. Though the league may profit, the momentous decision may damage the cherished Inside Guys gang. It may even cost them their jobs. Rich Eisen, a renowned sportscaster, warned NBA fans about potential threats to Shaquille O’Neal & Co.
In the latest episode of The Rich Eisen Show, the crew laughed about Kenny Smith falling on live TV in Inside Guys. Eisen revealed the truth to his panellists when discussing the fall’s aftermath. He remarked, “If Turner’s out, these four guys (Shaq, Kenny, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson) are up,” referring to the media contract. Eisen said, “It’s kind of sad if they’re going to let this thing go,” despite being their rival.
The TNT’s Inside Guys Show has had various notable analysts like Magic Johnson and Reggie Miller. However, it attained its popularity and became a household name when the current four joined together. While TNT managed to get the media deal on the last few occasions, they failed to grab the opportunity this time. The current 9-year contract between ESPN/ABC, and TNT with the NBA will come to an end in 2025. Through the course of the deal, the NBA earned $2.7 billion annually. However, with the upcoming deal, the league is expected to make $6 billion annually. As per the latest report, Amazon Prime has bagged the multi-billion dollar. Moreover, ESPN/ABC and NBC are also expected to be part of the deal. Meanwhile, Turner Sports couldn’t make it to the final list, putting the jobs of the Inside Guys crew at risk. Speaking of it, Charles Barkley said, “I just signed a 10-year deal two years ago, but one of the things I did was I put an opt-out in a couple years because I wanted to cover my a**.”
Rich Eisen dropped advice for the NBA Shaq and Chuck earn around $10 million annually through their TNT contract. While the money that the duo will lose is also important, Eisen pointed out the void that the Inside Guys will leave. He went on to give a piece of advice to the league. Eisen added, “NBA’s got to sit there and think these are the four best guys to sit down together and talk about their Sport and make it go viral in a way that nobody else can.” At the same time, he also put forward a debate, asking if going viral was the only metric to retain them. Shaq & Co. not only crack their audience up but also drop insights at regular intervals. Above all, they bring 90s experience to the table, acting as a bridge for the two generations. Eisen concluded his rant, saying, “you’re crazy if you think somebody’s just going to give them, all four of them, and keep them in tab.” Will the league consider Eisen’s case and retain the four guys despite the exit of TNT? Let us know your opinion in the comments below.
