AceShowbiz - Charles Barkley has proven his loyalty to Turner Sports, sacrificing a potential $100 million payday to stay with the network. Barkley announced on the Dan Le Batard Show podcast that he chose to remain with TNT to safeguard the jobs of his colleagues.

"The No. 1 thing for me is my people from Turner get to keep their jobs for at least another year," Barkley said. "That's all I was concerned with."

Despite the network's loss of NBA rights, Barkley's contract allowed him to leave. However, he expressed his appreciation for the offers he received from other networks.

"It was a great feeling and I want to thank all those networks for reaching out to me," Barkley said. "Even though they were throwing crazy numbers, I was like damn, but as long as I got my people safe at TNT man, I feel really good."

Barkley's decision stems from his long-term commitment to TNT, where he has become a fan favorite and an Emmy-winning commentator on "Inside the NBA." The network also supported Barkley's induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

According to Barkley, the NBA's decision to leave TNT was driven by financial considerations, favoring tech companies like Amazon that have the potential to pay higher fees in the future. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed gratitude to TNT for its coverage but acknowledged that the league was moving forward with a new arrangement.

TNT has filed a lawsuit against the NBA, alleging a violation of its contract, which allowed it to match competing bids. The network claims that Amazon's offer was accepted despite TNT meeting its terms.

If TNT's lawsuit fails, the 2024/25 season will mark the final year for "Inside the NBA," a beloved sports program that has graced screens for over 30 years. Barkley's decision to prioritize loyalty over financial gain underscores his commitment to the network and the relationships he has forged with his colleagues.