Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer Ernie Johnson announced his decision to retire as host of “Inside the NBA” after the season, saying in a social media video Wednesday that it was his decision to step away and that “it’s just time.”

Johnson led coverage of “Inside the NBA” with the same message confirming his decision to retire as host of the show. He revealed that while he’s retiring as host of the show, he’s not calling it the end of his career as he continues in roles like March Madness coverage.

“Just to be clear, I’m not retiring,” Johnson said. “Just cutting back. … So this is by no means the end. It’s just a turning of the page. And I’ll forever cherish every chapter we have written with ‘Inside the NBA.'”

After watching video of Johnson’s announcement, longtime on-air partner Charley Barkley was visibly emotional.

“That was tough,” Barkley said in a hoarse tone with tears streaming down his face. “We knew the day was coming. It’s still tough.…