Thursday’s Inside the NBA opened with somber news as Adam Lefkoe, standing in for Ernie Johnson, announced the passing of Johnson’s sister Christine.
She was 72 and had been battling cancer before her death on Wednesday.
The news visibly moved Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal, who offered their heartfelt condolences to their longtime colleague.
The show has long been recognized for addressing personal matters with sensitivity, and this moment was no different.
As the news spread, NBA fans joined the TNT crew in expressing their support for Johnson across social media platforms.
Many acknowledged Johnson’s recent struggles, with one fan noting: “Ernie has dealt with a lot of loss in the past few years. So sad for him.”
Ernie has dealt with a lot of loss in the past few years. So sad for him. https://t.co/CY46cZ1CUq
— Paolo Banchero Sweat Over Water 🩰 (@RainLadybugTwo) December 20, 2024
The messages of support continued flowing. “My deepest condolences and prayers to Ernie Johnson and his entire family,” one fan wrote, while another simply stated, “Many prayers to Ernie’s family.”
My deepest condolences and prayers to Ernie Johnson and his entire family🙏🏾🕊️ https://t.co/FjcDBxr2bI
— MNCBusinessLife (@mncbusinesslife) December 20, 2024
Many prayers to Ernie’s family. 🙏🏾 https://t.co/i3lUWUVB48
— 👑 Nitta (@KanittaJ) December 20, 2024
Recognizing Johnson’s impact on the show, another fan shared: “Sincere condolences to Ernie. He’s the GOAT and it’s always sad to see the GOAT in pain!”
Sincere condolences to Ernie. He’s the GOAT and it’s always sad to see the GOAT in pain! https://t.co/msQ38Z4TjE
— AKB (@akb7479) December 20, 2024
The timing of the loss, particularly close to the holiday season, resonated with many.
One lengthy message read: “Sending nothing but love to Ernie Johnson on the passing of his sister Christine Johnson after she lost her battle to cancer. To go through this right before Christmas and New Year’s, woof! Praying for you and the family Ernie! Stay strong!”
Sending nothing but love to Ernie Johnson on the passing of his sister Christine Johnson after she lost her battle to cancer. To go through this right before Christmas and New Years, woof! Praying for you and the family Ernie! Stay strong! @TurnerSportsEJ
— Lee Sanders (@TheRCWRShow) December 20, 2024
“Ernie, you’ve been through so much my condolences to you and your family prayers man,” wrote another supporter, while another message simply stated: “Sending out prayers to the Johnson family we all love you Ernie.”
Ernie, you’ve been through so much my condolences to you and your family prayers man 🙏🙏
— Terry (@TerryChimaobi) December 20, 2024
Sending out prayers to the Johnson family we all love you Ernie ❤️🕊️🙏🏾
— Crystal “Miss 🍑y” (@CrystalPeachyB) December 20, 2024
The collective response from fans and colleagues alike reflects the deep respect and admiration Johnson has earned throughout his broadcasting career, with the NBA community standing firmly behind him during this time of loss.
