Watch: Charles Barkley surprises Ernie Johnson with news of Hall of Fame induction

Congratulations are in order for Ernie Johnson.

Johnson, who has served as a host of TNT's "Inside the NBA" since 1989, will be inducted into the 2023 Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Johnson learned the news from longtime broadcast partner Charles Barkley, who he calls "Chuckster," live from the set of the eighth edition of "The Match" in Las Vegas on Thursday.

"Can I say something Ernie?" — "I think you already are," Johnson cracked — "This is big. This is big," Barkley said. "I'm the only person up here (who) knows this... It's an honor and a privilege to congratulate Ernie Johnson going into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame."

Johnson, 66, appeared shocked as the crew applauded him. He said he was "trying to hold it together."

"I've been at this for 34 years at the same place. It's been over 40 years in broadcasting and I'm stunned," Johnson said. "Thank you so much, I appreciate that very much... What a cool day."

Johnson extended his gratitude to the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame for his induction, saying he was "humbled beyond words." Johnson jokingly took off his headset and said: "You know what I'm taking the rest of the day off."

It's the latest accolade for the veteran sports broadcaster. Johnson is a six-time recipient of the Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality, Studio Host honor. In 2021, Johnson was named the National Sports Media Association's National Sportscaster of the Year alongside ESPN's Scott Van Pelt.