Top 10 NBA Studio Analysts

The 10 Best NBA Studio Analysts Today

The NBA is obviously one of the most popular sports leagues in America. Given that fact, there's also a ton hoops coverage for fans to enjoy. Three major networks have regular NBA shows: TNT, ESPN and NBA TV. As with any type of sports coverage, there are lots of varying opinions on who does the best job. In this slideshow we'll take a look at all three networks and their analysts to determine who's the best.

This slideshow is not a best NBA announcers list. While some of these guys may do color commentary from time to time, they're all studio analysts on a 'full-time' basis. These guys break down the action from behind the desk and most of them have a good time while doing it.

When it comes to the best NBA show, I don't think there's much debate. The NBA on TNT is far and away the best and most entertaining show of its kind. Not only do all the analysts have a wealth of basketball knowledge from their playing days, they also know how to entertain fans with jokes and quips. There's not a Thursday night that goes by where I don't laugh out loud from all the crazy antics.

ESPN NBA Countdown underwent a facelift this year. Magic Johnson is no longer part of the show and several new members joined the set. ESPN's NBA coverage is still secondary to TNT in my book, but they certainly do a good job. Given that their shows air on different nights, it's not like we have to choose between the two. Heck, ESPN even partners with Turner now to provide duel coverage.

So with all the studio analysts in mind, let's take a look at the best in the industry:

Grant Hill

Hill is a new studio analyst, but he's already well on his way to being one of the very best. NBA TV execs saw enough in him to give him the host job on the new 'NBA Inside Stuff' in his first year in the industry.

Chris Webber

C-Webb is not loved by all, but there's no denying he knows his hoops and how to make a solid argument for his viewpoint.

Shaquille O'Neal

Shaq is not for everyone. But if you love to laugh while talking hoops, he's your guy.

George Karl

You can make a solid case that Karl is still one of the best coaches in the NBA, even though he's not currently employed. He brings knowledge to the table that only a former coach can.

Tim Legler

Legs doesn't get near enough credit for his work on ESPN. He's not the best studio analyst, but he's been doing it a long time and he's usually pretty accurate with his assessments.

Bill Simmons

Simmons is either a guy that people seem to love or hate. But no matter your opinion of his studio analyst skills, there's no denying that he's a basketball encyclopedia.

Michael Wilbon

Wilbon's role on NBA Countdown was changed to that of an alternate or part-time member this year, but we all know that he's a hoops guy through and through. Wilbon can break down an NBA story with the best of em', no matter what ESPN show he's on.

Kenny Smith

You have to love the Jet's work on TNT. Sometimes he's the only guy that can stay focused with all the on-set chaos that takes place. Kenny Smith knows basketball as good as anyone in the industry.

Doug Collins

Collins is another former coach who brings a special skill set with him to TV. He still does color commentary for ESPN as well, simply because he's talented enough to do both jobs.

Charles Barkley

Sir Charles is the best studio analyst in the business today. He's not always professional and he's not always appropriate, but he's rarely way off the mark. Barkley brings a no-nonsense approach to the studio and he simply draws ratings.