“I Got My Hands Full”: Charles Barkley, Who Taught Veteran Producer to Shut His Mouth, Forced to Put His “Mic Down” on Live TV

Charles Barkley and Inside the NBA has become synonymous with each other. The Chuckster became a part of Turner Network Television(TNT) in 2000 and has entertained fans with his comments that are often hilarious. Tim Kiely joined the network five years before the Round Mound of Rebound and produced NBA on TNT from 1995 to 2023. His decision to retire after this year’s Playoffs prompted acknowledgment by Inside the NBA host Ernie Johnson. EJ announced the retirement during the show’s much-loved “Gone Fishin’ ’’ section.

EJ and Kenny Smith showered much praise upon the retiring producer. Meanwhile, the former 76ers Superstar reacted in the way typical to him when the retiring producer took the mic in his hands.

Charles Barkley sends off Tim Kiely in his typical style

TNT engages with the production of post-game shows for the NBA Playoffs till the Conference Finals. Inside the NBA’s host announced that this segment of the show will be the last one produced by the long-time producer. As Kiely wore a smile and walked towards the famous quartet, Sir Charles couldn’t help but engage in some banter. “Okay, I am not sure, you need to put that down in your hand.” 

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When TK asked why he need to put down the mic. Chuck responded hilariously, “Well, they can’t fire you so that’s a good point”. Chuck still had the mic in his hands when Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny, and Ernie were clapping when the retiring producer came to the chair. The Emmy-Winning Host then asked why the former Philadelphia 76ers forward wasn’t clapping. To which he responded, “Oh, I’ve got my hands full”. Now, it was EJ’s turn to ask The Chuckster to put the mic down, which he did, and finally engaged in applause.

Kenny Smith has huge praise for TK

As Barkley likened visiting the departing producer’s office to going to the Principal’s Office, the Jet had some words of appreciation. Kenny Smith worked with him for more than 20 years and the words of adulation come as little surprise.

“This is why we are the way we are because he is the architect of this, you been the architect of this. Honestly, I think we all should get a couple of seconds to say something, the architect of what this is. The first person that I could remember when people used to say “Kenny you should look at the camera”. He said, “nope, Kenny, you don’t have to, if you don’t want to”. Said the two-time NBA Champion.

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It is clear that Tim “TK” Kiely has left deep impressions on the famous quartet. It is not surprising, considering he has produced one of the best sporting shows. How will the show look after his departure?