Ernie Johnson took over the lead host role for CBS and TNT Sports’ coverage of NCAA March Madness last year, stepping in for legendary host Greg Gumbel following his death in December 2024.
Johnson’s full-time hosting duties were short-lived.
Earlier this month, CBS and TNT made a surprise announcement that Johnson will no longer host the first two weeks of March Madness. The longtime “Inside the NBA” host will be replaced by former NFL wide receiver Nate Burleson, who’s covering the NCAA Tournament for the first time in his broadcasting career.
This sudden announcement sparked concern among fans. But, Johnson quelled those concerns with a recent statement.
“At my request, I will take a step back from working the first two weeks of March Madness,” Johnson told NJ.com. “I appreciate the support from TNT Sports, along with my CBS Sports colleagues. We have a tremendously talented broadcast team, and I look forward to hosting our studio coverage from the Final Four in Indianapolis.”
A person with direct knowledge of the situation told NJ.com that Johnson is “fine.” The 69-year-old broadcaster is simply scaling back his workload as he ventures further into the later stages of his career.
Johnson will still host coverage of the Final Four in Indianapolis.
The 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket will be announced in a Selection Sunday event on Mar. 15. The March Madness action will tipoff with the First Four on Mar. 17.