Veteran sports broadcaster Dan Patrick has publicly backed Adam Lefkoe as a potential successor to Ernie Johnson on TNT's flagship NBA studio show "Inside the NBA," according to a report published Thursday.
Patrick, a prominent figure in sports media, expressed his support for Lefkoe during a recent broadcast, suggesting the younger host has the skills and presence to eventually fill Johnson's role on the Emmy Award-winning program. Johnson has anchored "Inside the NBA" since its inception in 1989 alongside analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith.
Lefkoe currently serves as a host and contributor across TNT Sports' NBA coverage, including playoff broadcasts and studio segments. The endorsement comes amid ongoing speculation about the long-term future of the show's hosting lineup, though Johnson has not announced any retirement plans.
TNT Sports, which holds NBA broadcast rights through the 2024-25 season, has not commented on succession planning for the program.
