Charles Barkley speaks on television.Charles Barkley (Photo via NBA TV)
Charles Barkley has entertained NBA fans since 2000 when he closed the closet on his Rockets jersey. But all good things must come to an end and Barkley’s phenomenal career on the analyst desk is no different.

Following the NBA Finals game 4, Barkley announced his retirement from TV. During the post-game show on NBA TV, Chuck announced the decision by saying, “I have made the decision that no matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television. And I just want to say thank you to my NBA family. You guys have been great to me. My heart is full with joy and gratitude.”

The mood changed into a melancholic one after his statement. It was starkly contrasting from Sir Charles’ jovial visage before the game when he held a board with “Mavs in 7” written on it.

The news soon became viral and social media stood up to applaud their beloved “Inside The NBA” analyst. Here are some of the reactions on X (fka Twitter):

With the NBA’s impending switch to ABC and Disney from the 2025-26 season, the fate of “Inside The NBA” is more or less sealed. With Barkley’s latest decision, he ensured that the book would close on the show along with him. But that doesn’t mean we cannot enjoy Charles Barkley and his viral TV moments for now.

Charles Barkley Fires at Celtics After Game 4 Loss

The Celtics’ plans to end the series early came to a screeching halt in game 4. At some point, the Mavericks were bound to respond, but Friday night’s game saw complete annihilation. But that wasn’t enough as they suffered more bludgeoning at the hands of Charles Barkley following the game.

In the post-game analysis, Charles Barkley showed no sympathy for the Celtics. After the 84-122 loss, Barkley called out the Cs over their professionalism. “That was embarrassing by the Celtics. They actually thought the Mavs were going to quit. They came out nonchalant, lackadaisical. … that was so unprofessional, the way they played that game tonight,” said Barkley on NBA TV.

The Celtics were by far the second-best from start to finish. Luka Doncic set the pace for the Mavs with 29 points, followed by 21 from Kyrie Irving. For the Boston side, only Jayson Tatum reached the 15-point mark.

The series now moves back to TD Garden for game 5 and the Celtics will have a chance to clinch the title in front of their fans.