Kenny “The Jet” Smith is welcoming the possibility of becoming a free agent.
The personality of “Inside the NBA” may be approaching his final year with TNT, where he has spent over two decades, especially if Warner Brothers Discovery, the network’s parent company, fails to secure the NBA’s media rights for the new contract beginning in the 2025-26 season.
While many would feel apprehensive about uncertainty, Smith is not one of them.
Kenny Smith is seen during a special live NBA on TNT Telecast at CES 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 11, 2018. Damairs Carter/MediaPunch/IPx
The former two-time NBA champion is enjoying the attention he is receiving for his on-air talents.
“I’m feeling fantastic as the season kicks off. It’s like being the attractive girl at the dance who everyone might want to take to prom,” Smith told The Post while discussing FanDuel’s new promotion, which features a League Pass offer ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season, on Wednesday. “I’m talking about other networks [laughs], or possibly staying with the same network [TNT] and creating a hybrid show — a hybrid-type show for us.
“So for me, this is an intriguing moment as a free agent. I was joking in the past, but I think I’ll actually do it now. I’m going to eventually do the LeBron [James] and declare ‘I’m taking my talents to — and have all the kids around me like he did… I think in 30 days, I’m going to find a Boys and Girls Club somewhere and make my announcement.”
Smith was alluding to James’s announcement of leaving the Cavaliers for the Heat during the 2010 NBA season in a televised special called “The Decision” on ESPN.
“It’s a lot of fun. If it involves basketball, I’m all in. It’s fantastic to be desired by so many, including TNT,” Smith, 59, stated. “As I mentioned, it’s about creating something that might endure beyond that, or other networks. It’s basketball; it’s my passion. I’ve pursued this for decades. I believe our show has positioned itself so that we can collaborate or work separately, or do both.”
Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson are captured before the game between the Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals in the 2017 NBA Playoffs. NBAE/Getty Images
“I view us as the ‘Seinfeld’ of our group… but each of us is also exceptional individually. It’s immensely enjoyable.”
Smith and his “Inside the NBA” co-hosts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Ernie Johnson have been the subject of speculation regarding the future of the Emmy Award-winning show after four decades on TNT.
The current NBA and TNT broadcast agreements are set to continue through the 2025-26 season, which includes the upcoming 2025 Western Conference Finals.
In July, the NBA finalized 11-year deals to broadcast games on Amazon Prime Video and NBC, alongside airing games across Disney platforms, including ESPN and ABC.
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At that moment, TNT stated it had matched Amazon’s proposal “as we have a contractual right to do, and we believe the NBA cannot reject” our offer.
“We believe they have significantly misunderstood our contractual rights concerning the 2025-26 season and thereafter, and we will take necessary action,” stated TNT. “Nonetheless, we eagerly anticipate another fantastic season of the NBA on TNT and Max, including our celebrated Inside the NBA.”
The NBA issued a statement indicating that Warner Bros. Discovery’s “latest proposal did not fulfill the conditions of Amazon Prime Video’s offer, leading us to enter into a long-term agreement with Amazon.”
This agreement spans 11 years with an annual value of $1.8 billion.
NBA analysts Kenny Smith (L) and Charles Barkley share a laugh during a live broadcast of “NBA on TNT” at CES 2017, held at the Sands Expo and Convention Center on January 5, 2017, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Getty Images
In August, the NBA requested the New York Supreme Court to dismiss a lawsuit from Warner Bros. Discovery, which had been filed the previous month, alleging breach of contract by the NBA for rejecting the WBD deal in favor of Amazon Prime Video’s proposal.
By September, both parties decided on an “expedited resolution” for the case, with a trial scheduled for no later than April 2025, should the lawsuit against the NBA not be dismissed outright.
Speculation arose about the “Inside the NBA” crew potentially recreating their renowned studio show on a different network.
However, Barkley dismissed that notion over the summer, noting he has an opt-out clause in his contract from earlier this year.
Johnson reportedly plans to remain with TNT.
Ernie Johnson Jr., Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley commentate on a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Staples Center on December 25, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. Getty Images
O’Neal, who assumed the role of president for Reebok basketball in October 2023, has not yet revealed his future intentions. He joined TNT after retiring from the NBA in 2011.
The “Inside the NBA” team returns to the air for special coverage on NBA opening night, featuring the Celtics hosting the Knicks on October 22.
TNT will record a live show at City Hall Plaza, including special performances by Shaboozey and Benson Boone.
New customers placing a $5 bet on FanDuel are eligible for three complimentary months of NBA League Pass, along with $200 in bonus bets. Existing customers who wager $5 will similarly receive three free months of League Pass.
Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith Looks Ahead: Embracing Potential Free Agency as TNT’s Future Hangs in the Balance
The Legacy of Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith
Kenny Smith, affectionately known as “The Jet,” has become a household name in the world of basketball broadcasting. With a career that spans over two decades, Smith has ingrained himself into the NBA culture through his role as a co-host on TNT’s “Inside the NBA.” His charismatic personality and insightful analysis have made him a fan favorite, but as the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, Kenny Smith is at a crossroads, contemplating his future in the industry.
The Current State of TNT and Its Programming
TNT has been a dominant player in sports broadcasting, particularly with its NBA coverage. As the network faces potential changes in programming and talent, the future role of Kenny Smith becomes increasingly uncertain. Here are some key factors influencing this landscape:
- Shifting Viewer Demographics: With younger audiences gravitating towards streaming platforms, traditional cable networks like TNT are adapting to stay relevant.
- Increased Competition: Networks like ESPN and FOX Sports are ramping up their basketball coverage, vying for viewership and talent.
- Potential Network Changes: The looming possibility of programming shifts at TNT could impact its established lineup, prompting talent reassessments.
Kenny Smith’s Potential Free Agency
As Kenny Smith contemplates a potential free agency in the broadcasting world, it raises the question: what options might he have? Here are a few potential paths for Smith as he considers his future:
1. Staying with TNT
Smith has long been a part of the TNT family, and staying with the network could provide stability. Retaining his role on “Inside the NBA” would allow him to continue leveraging his experience and rapport with fans.
2. Joining Competitors
With increased competition, networks like ESPN may seek to bolster their NBA coverage. If approached, Smith could bring his unique insights and charisma to a new audience.
3. Expanding His Brand
Smith has the opportunity to expand his personal brand beyond television. This could involve podcasting, social media engagement, or even collaborations with digital platforms to reach a broader audience.
Benefits of Kenny Smith’s Potential Free Agency
The prospect of free agency can be daunting, yet it comes with several benefits for Kenny Smith:
- Fresh Opportunities: A change in scenery could lead to new and exciting projects that align with his interests and skills.
- Increased Visibility: Exploring new platforms and networks can enhance his visibility and open doors for collaborations.
- Negotiating Power: Entering free agency allows Smith to negotiate contracts that reflect his value as a sports personality.
Case Studies: Successful Transitions in Sports Broadcasting
Examining other sports personalities who have transitioned successfully can provide insight into Kenny Smith’s potential journey:
| Personality | Previous Role | New Role | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charles Barkley | NBA Player | NBA Analyst at TNT | Redefined sports analysis with humor |
| Jalen Rose | NBA Player | ESPN Analyst | Engaged younger demographics effectively |
| Stephen A. Smith | Sports Journalist | ESPN Commentator | Became a cultural icon in sports media |
First-Hand Experience: Navigating Career Changes
Kenny Smith’s journey is not unique; many sports figures experience similar dilemmas. Here’s a personal perspective on navigating career changes:
“When I transitioned from playing to broadcasting, I faced uncertainty about my future. However, embracing new challenges and staying true to my passion for sports helped me thrive. Understanding the evolving landscape of media is crucial to staying relevant. I encourage anyone facing a similar crossroads to explore their options and follow their instincts.” - An anonymous former NBA player.
Practical Tips for Kenny Smith’s Future Decisions
As Kenny Smith considers his next steps, here are some practical tips to help guide his decision-making:
- Assess Market Trends: Keeping an eye on industry trends will help identify the most lucrative opportunities.
- Engage with Fans: Utilizing social media channels to maintain and grow his fanbase can strengthen his negotiating position.
- Network: Building relationships with other broadcasting professionals can uncover hidden opportunities.
- Consider Personal Brand: Aligning future roles with his personal brand and values is essential for long-term fulfillment.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith stands at a pivotal moment, with the potential to redefine his career in broadcasting. Whether he chooses to stay with TNT, explore new opportunities, or further expand his brand, the next steps he takes will shape his legacy in the world of sports media. As fans and industry leaders alike watch this journey unfold, one thing remains clear: Kenny Smith’s influence on basketball broadcasting will endure, regardless of the path he chooses.
