In a bold and unexpected move, NBA icon Charles Barkley is relaunching his production company, Round Mound Media, partnering with Warner Bros. Discovery and TNT to shake up the media landscape. Frustrated by a lack of action from his current employer, Barkley is stepping up to create opportunities not just for himself but for his colleagues who may be facing uncertain futures.
As the 2024-25 NBA season looms, Barkley made what might be his final podcast appearance before returning to the airwaves with TNT and Warner Bros. Discovery. On the inaugural episode of “The Jim Jackson Show,” the outspoken analyst didn’t hold back. When asked if his production company’s relaunch was accelerated due to Warner Bros. Discovery’s challenges with NBA media rights, Barkley was candid.
“I had a lot of ideas, and I was unhappy that we weren’t doing what needed to be done,” Barkley revealed, highlighting his dissatisfaction with the stagnation of his creative projects.
Round Mound Media, initially launched in 2018, had been on the backburner due to a lack of support. Now, with renewed vigor and partnership, Barkley aims to bring his visions to life.
But this isn’t just about personal ambition. Barkley has been openly concerned about his colleagues’ job security, especially those working on “Inside the NBA.” With potential changes in licensing and budget constraints, many staff members face an uncertain future.
“I’m not relaunching this company for me,” Barkley emphasized. “It’s about helping the people around me.”
In an industry where layoffs and budget cuts are becoming all too common, Barkley’s proactive approach stands out. He’s leveraging his influence to create new opportunities and ensure that talented individuals aren’t left behind as the media landscape shifts.
With many TNT staff potentially facing job losses after this NBA season, Barkley’s initiative could be a lifeline. His commitment to his team underscores a level of loyalty and leadership that’s increasingly rare.
As the future of “Inside the NBA” hangs in the balance, one thing is clear: Charles Barkley isn’t waiting for solutions—he’s creating them.
