Charles Barkley and Ernie Johnson have had a longstanding friendship. Since Sir Charles joined the cast of Inside the NBA on TNT in 2000, the two have worked together. Their chemistry is so strong that they even have their own podcast, ‘The Steam Room‘. In the latest episode, the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer reminded Chuckster of February’s significance. While Johnson noted it as Black History Month, Barkley’s focus was on his birthday, and the NBA icon’s succeeding words were accurately predicted by his good friend.

The Philadelphia 76ers legend celebrates his birthday on February 20 and seems to be looking forward to his 61st birthday later this month. Following Ernie’s mention of Black History Month, Chuck highlighted how February is the shortest month. “In fairness, y’all gave it the shortest month.” In response, Johnson amusingly noted that he had already predicted Barkley’s comment. Ernie proudly boasted, “Folks how long did that take?”

This led to the crew instantly replaying Johnson’s words from earlier in the day. “I am gonna make a quick prediction for you. When I point out to Charles that it’s now February and thus it’s Black History Month, I know what he’s gonna say. I have known him for a long time. You will hear him say this, ‘Pretty nice of y’all to give us the shortest month of the year’; Mark my words, it’s gonna happen.”

Ernie explained how he came up with this prediction. Both stressed the time they’ve spent together and how well they know each other. “You and I have been together for way too long.” Not just the duo, the same bond is seen among the other crew members.

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The Inside the NBA crew might not be living together, but their extensive collaboration has fostered an understanding of each other’s working styles.

“This is as close as I’ll ever come to having brothers“- Ernie Johnson on Inside the NBA co-hosts

The Inside the NBA crew has seen a remarkable bond for more than two decades. Barkley and Johnson, along with Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, have not only brought captivating sports analysis to fans but have also cultivated a deep sense of friendship and brotherhood. This special connection was seen when Kenny, Shaq, and Barkley inducted Johnson into the Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame. 

When Johnson was questioned about the unique bond with the cast, he described his colleagues as his brothers. “So when you have that kind of time together, you have that kind of bond, yeah, we love each other. We really, truly do. I grew up with two older sisters and this is as close as I’ll ever come to having brothers. And that’s what they are to me.”

Which is your favorite moment from the Steam Room podcast? Let us know in the comments section below.

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