Ernie Johnson, the host of Inside the NBA, was left red-faced after his prediction of the Milwaukee Bucks coming back from a 3-1 series deficit against the Miami Heat turned out to be wrong. The Heat staged an incredible comeback from 16 points down in the fourth quarter to force overtime in Game 5, ultimately winning 128-126 and clinching the series.
When Charles Barkley asked Johnson when the Bucks-Heat highlight would be played, Johnson responded with his trademark wit, saying: “We’re getting to it right now, you knucklehead.” Johnson then dramatically tore off the post-it where he had written his prediction and admitted his mistake: “Down 3-1, the Bucks win series. … I misfired on that one. I’m the first to admit it.”
Fans took to twitter after the Heat won against the Milwaukee Bucks. Even the Mayor of Miami tweeted Some people never learn…” Another fan said -“ That is why I like Ernie. Owns up to it. Doesn’t just disappear or deflect.”
"I misfired on that one" 🤣
Ernie had to tear up his post-it note prediction after the @MiamiHEAT beat the Bucks pic.twitter.com/vCcNZSCECH
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 27, 2023
The Miami Heat responded to Johnson’s prediction on Twitter, showing their love for the host despite his mistake: “Oh deer we still love you @TurnerSportsEJ.”
Johnson’s colleagues on the show had a good laugh at his expense, with Shaquille O’Neal jokingly asking Johnson if he needed a hug. However, Johnson took the ribbing in stride, proving once again why he is one of the most beloved personalities in sports broadcasting.
Despite his failed prediction, Johnson remains a highly respected figure in the sports media world. His humility and ability to laugh at himself only add to his charm and credibility as a host. As Johnson himself once said, “It’s not about being right or wrong, it’s about being accountable.” And in this case, Johnson certainly lived up to his own words.
Some people never learn…😎
— Mayor Francis Suarez (@FrancisSuarez) April 27, 2023
The Heat is On: Jimmy Butler Leads Miami to Historic Upset of No. 1 Seed Bucks
The Miami Heat led by Jimmy Butler pulled off a stunning upset against the Milwaukee Bucks, becoming the sixth team in NBA history to eliminate a No. 1 seed in the playoffs. Despite trailing by 16 points in the fourth quarter of Game 5, the Heat forced overtime and came out with a 128-126 victory.
Butler had an impressive performance with 42 points, eight rebounds, and four assists, with which the Heat rallied to complete the series upset. Bam Adebayo recorded a triple-double of 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Gabe Vincent contributed 22 points and six assists.
On the other hand, the Bucks, who were considered title favorites, failed to make any adjustments to slow down Butler, who was dominant throughout the series. Even the return of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Games 4 and 5 couldn’t turn the tide in favor of the Bucks. An injury to Giannis in Game 1 had allowed the Heat to gain an advantage, and the Bucks were unable to recover.