Like Magic, Johnson Extends TNT Pact

National Basketball Association Hall of FamerEarvin “Magic” Johnson will remain with Turner Network Television’s Inside the NBA studio show following a multiyear contract extension announced Thursday.

Johnson will rejoinCharles Barkley,Kenny Smith andErnie Johnson several times during the 2005-06 NBA season. Five-time NBA All-StarReggie Miller will also make several appearances, the network said.

Inside the NBA airs Thursday nights on TNT following the network’s exclusive NBA doubleheader coverage.

“TNT is honored to continue working with Magic Johnson, one of the greatest basketball legends of our time,” Turner Sports president David Levy said in a prepared statement. “For the past several years, he’s provided unrivaled credibility, charisma and chemistry to our NBA programming, and we are proud to once again have the opportunity to showcase his talents and insights on TNT.”