Charles Barkley lands mega deal, contract extension with TNT
By Keith Farner
Published:
Charles Barkley is one of the most well-known figures in sports broadcasting, and is a popular personality among SEC fans because of his days at Auburn.
Now the TNT broadcaster has a new 10-year deal to remain with the company that is well north of $100 million and likely approaches $200 million, Andrew Marchand of The New York Post reported. Barkley, who briefly flirted with the LIV golf tour earlier this year, could remain with TNT for an additional 7 years if TNT retains the rights to the NBA.
Barkley currently has 3 years left on a contract that pays him $10 million per season, Marchand reported. His current contract coincides with TNT’s agreement with the NBA deal expiring after the 2024-25 season. If Turner were not to keep the NBA, Barkley could potentially own rights to go work for another network or a digital platform, if Amazon or Apple or others are involved.
Barkley, 59, has discussed retiring in recent months during national interviews, but TNT has made a huge commitment to him and his partners, Marchand reported. While Shaquille O’Neal already has a long-term agreement, TNT has also re-signed host Ernie Johnson and analyst Kenny Smith to new deals. Turner was expected to announce all the deals on Monday.
With Warner Bros. Discovery, TNT’s corporate parent, Barkely will add to his portfolio by producing documentaries and other projects with his production company, Round Mound Media, according to Marchand’s sources.
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
