Adam Silver Breaks Silence on NBA’s Media Rights After Charles Barkley Accused TNT of Messing Up

Charles Barkley came swinging that he might take the ‘Inside the NBA’ show away from TNT. Now we have Adam Silver with his comments on the entire situation. Previously, Silver received a lot of criticism from fans for being unable to keep the show running. This might mark the end of 35 years of association between TNT and the NBA. But, what did Silver have to say?

Silver was outside the White House state dinner in D.C. when he made those comments. So once again fans are in limbo regarding their favorite show. Charles Barkley is awaiting the conclusion so he can possibly start with his action plan. When Dan Patrick asked him about the future, he discussed the possibility of hiring the crew to his own production company, continuing to do the show, and selling it.

The Commissioner’s comments have been possible due to TMZ. The reports stated that Silver and C0. intent to get a new deal for TNT. He said, “We’re all still talking.” But the optimism was not on full display as he quickly downplayed the situation, adding, “Who knows how it’s going to work out?”

So the comments should be taken with a pinch of salt. It is obvious Silver won’t give away the official details right now. However, is there an issue between the executives of Warner Bros. Discovery and the NBA?

Will Charles Barkley stay with TNT?

Charles Barkley’s contract extension in 2022 was reportedly extended for 10 more years. As per Andrew Marchand, the contract was worth $10 million per season. TNT failed to sign an extension in the exclusivity window, and it seems there is more to the story.

During the latest episode of ‘The Joe Pomp Show’, the host invited Alex Sherman. He has been closely following the media rights negotiations and noted how Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s comments annoyed NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “I think the Warner Brothers Discovery’s message of financial discipline has irritated the NBA. And look, you brought it you already. Clearly, that’s why they didn’t walk away with a handshake deal like Disney did from there during the exclusivity window. So, I think there’s some tension there”, Sherman explained.

Adam Silver hasn’t publicly addressed the comments from Zaslav. However, Sherman believes the NBA is after a partner who will prioritize the league. Hence, Zaslav’s comments could have seen the NBA deter away from Turner Sports. Charles Barkley feels so too. When he joined The Dan Patrick Show a few days back he named Zaslav responsible for angering Silver.

Has the fan reaction prompted the response from Adam Silver? If the relationship between Adam Silver and David Zaslav is not really on the best of terms, there is a possibility Charles Barkley could execute his plan.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.