Kevin Thomas TNT Death, Obituary: The “Inside the NBA” family is mourning the loss of Kevin Thomas, a long-serving and cherished stagehand who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 70. A fixture behind the scenes of the iconic show, Thomas was more than just a crew member — he was a beloved part of the team whose presence was deeply felt by everyone he worked with. His sudden passing has left a significant void in the hearts of those who knew him.
The emotional tribute took place during the pregame show on Thursday night, where hosts Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal each took a moment to reflect on Thomas’ legacy. Standing with many crew members behind them, the hosts offered heartfelt words that highlighted Kevin’s warmth, dedication, and enduring impact on the show’s success. Their expressions of grief and respect underscored just how deeply Thomas was appreciated by the entire production team.
Ernie Johnson, known for his compassion and leadership on set, described Thomas as an irreplaceable part of the “Inside the NBA” family. Charles Barkley recalled his humor and unwavering support, while Kenny Smith emphasized how Kevin’s work ethic and kindness uplifted everyone around him. Shaquille O’Neal, visibly moved, spoke of Kevin’s loyalty and genuine nature, noting how rare it is to encounter someone so consistently kind and dependable in the high-pressure world of television.
Kevin Thomas had worked with TNT’s “Inside the NBA” for many years, becoming a familiar and comforting presence behind the scenes. While his role may have been out of the spotlight, his influence was felt in every episode. He helped bring together a show that’s beloved by millions of basketball fans — not just through his technical contributions, but through the relationships he built and the respect he earned.
The tribute was made all the more poignant given the show’s impending move to ESPN next year, marking the end of an era. For the “Inside the NBA” team, Kevin Thomas represented the heart and soul of a behind-the-scenes crew that kept the show running smoothly and made it a joy to be a part of.
Kevin is survived by his wife, son, and four grandchildren. As the crew and cast of “Inside the NBA” grieve, they also celebrate a life well-lived — one marked by integrity, hard work, and the kind of quiet heroism that often goes unnoticed, but never unappreciated.
In remembering Kevin Thomas, the “Inside the NBA” family honors not just a colleague, but a friend, mentor, and true professional. His legacy will continue to live on in the memories of those who knew him and in the continued excellence of a show he helped build.
