TNT may have lost the NBA deal, but it has gained back the former producer of Inside the NBA — Tim Kiely. The man who joined TNT half a decade before Charles Barkley did and produced the network’s most beloved show from 1995 to 2023. And now that Chuck has committed to sticking with the network, he’s all excited to welcome back this member.

The announcement of the return came from the official handles of TNT on different social media platforms. “Let’s have some fun!” Barkley wrote on the IG post announcing Kiely’s return. Just in time!

For those unaware, the show is celebrating its 35th year with 21 Sports Emmys and HOF recognized the Curt Gowdy Transformative Media Award to its name. And Kiely deserves a large part of the credit for this success. Kiely wasn’t just a producer; he was the architect behind the unscripted magic that made the show unique.

TK played a major role in shaping what the Inside the NBA crew looks like. Bringing in Kenny Smith in 1998, Charles Barkley in 2000, and Shaquille O’Neal in 2011—all Tim Kiely. More importantly, he ditched the teleprompters and scripts. Thus letting the crew riff naturally, which made every episode feel like a conversation rather than a broadcast. And this has without a doubt been one of the USPs of the show. But as we all know, the show now stands amid looming clouds of uncertainty.

TNT has lost its NBA deal, which leaves Inside the NBA hanging in the balance. The 2024-25 season could be its last in its current form. So, what does this mean for the show? Well, rumors are flying. Some think it might stick around as a general sports show; others speculate it could move to a different network altogether. Either way, with Kiely back on board, you can’t help but feel a bit more optimistic, right?

When Kiely retired last year, Ernie Johnson called him the “best of all time”. So, if anyone can breathe new life into Inside the NBA, it’s Tim Kiely.

What did Charles Barkley and the crew’s final moments with Tim Kiely on TNT look like back in 2023?

Imagine watching one of your favorite shows and suddenly realizing that it’s the end of an era. That’s what it felt like for many fans of Inside the NBA back in 2023. When the TNT crew gave a heartfelt farewell to their long-time producer, Tim Kiely — better known as TK — it was one of those moments where you could feel the mix of laughter and sentimentality even through the TV screen.

As TK made his way towards the beloved quartet of Barkley, Shaq, Smith, and Johnson, a familiar banter filled the air. Charles, always ready with a joke, teased Kiely, saying, “Okay, I am not sure, you need to put that (a can of drink) down in your hand.” And when TK asked why, Charles couldn’t resist a classic response–“Well, they can’t fire you, so that’s a good point.” 

The moment wasn’t all jokes, though. Smith, who’d worked with TK for over two decades, shared a heartfelt message for him. He described Kiely as the “architect” behind the show’s unique style. The one who allowed them to be themselves on camera, even if it meant ignoring the usual TV rules. Now, it’s to be seen what new Tim can bring out of the bag to retain the glory of the show he once built.