This NBA Analyst Questions If Inside the NBA Crew Even Enjoys Basketball

Nick Wright has an issue with one of the most popular NBA talk shows. On a recent episode of his What’s Wright? podcast, the FS1 host called the long-running studio show Inside the NBA “the greatest sports TV show ever,” but that praise came with a pointed critique.

“I wish it felt like they enjoyed basketball more than it feels like,” Wright said.

Take a listen:

A Look At Inside the NBA

Getty ImagesErnie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal return for Inside the NBA’s ESPN debut.

Inside the NBA has been around long enough that it feels like an extension of the league itself. It debuted in the long before any current player had picked up a basketball, and was unique in its style of blending highlights and analysis.

Over the years it has morphed into something very different. Now, it’s known more for its extra extra flair and strong analysts’ personalities.

As the NBA itself grew in popularity and style, the show started leaning more into entertainment. The big shift really came when the chemistry between its hosts became the main attraction. Instead of just breaking down games, the crew started joking around, telling stories, and occasionally going completely off-topic.

The show is is anchored by Ernie Johnson, alongside former NBA legends Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal. Barkley’s blunt honesty and willingness to criticize set the tone, Shaq leans into big-picture takes and player perspective, and Smith often bridges analysis with experience. Together, they create an unpredictable mix of insight and entertainment.

Nick Wright’s Frustrations With Inside the NBA

Getty ImagesShaquille O’Neal confirms that Inside the NBA will continue on ESPN with special shows throughout the season, alongside opening night and Christmas broadcasts.

Wright’s frustration with Inside the NBA isn’t isolated to one moment. However, one recent moment in particular struck a chord with him.

He discussed the Los Angele Lakers’ recent 127-125 win over the Denver Nuggets, which was a full display of the league’s best drama, elite play, and a Luka Doncićc buzzer-beater. It will likely finish as one of the best games of the regular season. However, Wright said the show’s tone didn’t match the moment.

“Like, what are we doing?” he said. “That was one of the best games of the year.”

Wright isn’t bothered by criticism itself, but rather that it so often overshadows the joy of the game and the league as a whole. Instead of highlighting great moments, the show’s analysis can come off as dismissive.

“There’s almost a jealousy component,” Wright said, noting how frequently former players diminish today’s stars.

He contrasted that with NFL coverage.

“You don’t see Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long on Fox NFL pregame being like ‘None of these guys could have done it in the ’70s or 80s. ‘ It’s not what it is,” Wright said. “It’s a celebration of the games.”

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